The invasion of Bruma

By Halaliye Karunathilake
Edited and translated by Niluka De Silva
Illustrated by Saman Kalubowila

1. King Parakramabahu assembled his commanders. He explained in detail, all the ill-treatment and the risks suffered by the Sinhala traders, on their visits to Burma. He made it clear to them that the only solution left, was war. The king added, "I am quite sure that you will very willingly undertake the task." All the commanders, in one voice said, "Yes, we are ready." This made the king very happy.

2. From then onwards, all arrangements were made for the invasion, in double quick time. But it took five full months. Uniforms, weapons and a special kind of pointed arrow, had to be made. These arrows were to be used in shooting elephants. Big ships were made and they had to be loaded with food stuff to last for a number of months.

3. The physical health of the soldiers too had to be seen to and all medical facilities had to be supplied. A team of doctors and nurses were selected to accompany the soldiers. They too were given military training. Different kinds of medicines were deposited inside the horns of bulls. A special tool was made to remove the arrows that would strike them.

4. When the arrangements were finalised, the king summoned the commanders and gave them permission to proceed. They left the country from the harbour of Palwakki, in the eastern coast of the island. The commander-in-chief of these troops was the Tamil Adhikari Aditya. The second in command was Commander Kitnuwaragal.

5. They meant to enter Burma as one team and then to start the fight. But on the way, they had to face a storm, which made some ships sink. Some other ships floated to other countries. One such ship is said to have floated to Crow Island. Some scholars believe that this island belonged to the Andaman Islands.

6. Whatever that may be, the Sinhala soldiers were able to capture some of the subjects of that area and bring them to Sri Lanka as prisoners. Five ships, under the captaincy of the Commander Kitnuwaragal reached the port of Bassen. The soldiers who sailed in these ships were able to enter Burma through this port.

7. From the moment they stepped on land, they carried on a campaign of burning houses, ruining villages and even mercilessly killing their animals. This provoked the Burmese army and they came to fight. The Sinhala soldiers were able to defeat them. In the meantime, the Commander-in-chief Tamil Adhikari Aditya reached the Mapap Bridge. They were able to enter from the port there, without any obstacle.

8. From here, they entered Burma. The commander with his armies advanced from the shore and conquered the city of Ukkama. It is then that King Alaunsitu and his army entered the fight. A serious battle ensued. Lots of lives were lost. King Alaunsitu died on the battle-field. This of course is according to the chronicles of Sri Lanka.