Image for King Vimaladharmasuriya I

King Vimaladharmasuriya I

King Vimaladharmasuriya I was a prominent ruler of Sri Lanka during the late 16th and early 17th centuries. He is known for uniting the island's Sinhala kingdoms and strengthening Buddhism after a period of Portuguese colonization and conflict. His reign (1590–1604) focused on restoring Buddhist traditions, rebuilding the kingdom's stability, and resisting foreign influences. Vimaladharmasuriya I is remembered as a national hero who helped revive Sri Lankan cultural identity and sovereignty during a challenging time.