Nissanka Malla

MedievalEmperorSri Lanka1187 — 1196

Kalinga-born king who claimed to be pure Buddhist.

Compare:vs Napoleon vs Julius Caesar

Quick Facts

Born

1187

Died

1196

Country

Sri Lanka

Era

Medieval

Occupation

Emperor

Score Overview

Military (10%)46

Political (20%)44

Influence (20%)63

Legacy (20%)49

Leadership (15%)40

Strategy (15%)43

Total Score48.2

Nissanka Malla — Complete Timeline

1187 AD

Claim of Pure Buddhist LineagePolitical Action

Upon ascending the throne, Nissanka Malla claimed to be a pure Buddhist king, despite his Kalinga (Indian) origin. He emphasized his adherence to Buddhist principles and sought to legitimize his rule.

LegitimacyBuddhismPropaganda

Impact: national

1190 AD

Construction of Nissanka Latha MandapayaCultural

Nissanka Malla built the Nissanka Latha Mandapaya in Polonnaruwa, a unique stone structure with a lotus-shaped roof. It was used for reciting Buddhist scriptures.

ArchitectureBuddhismCultural Heritage

constructive

1192 AD

Construction of HatadageCultural

Nissanka Malla built the Hatadage, a relic house in Polonnaruwa, to house the Tooth Relic of the Buddha. The structure was built in a single day, according to inscriptions.

ArchitectureBuddhismRelic

constructive

1193 AD

Inscription of Gal PotaCultural

Nissanka Malla commissioned the Gal Pota (Stone Book) inscription at Polonnaruwa. The inscription, carved on a large stone slab, details his reign, achievements, and claims to be a pure Buddhist king.

InscriptionPropagandaHistory