Mediaeval Sinhalese Art c6.63

c6.63

But the king’s mind became deranged; he lived in perpetual fear of his life, and committed great cruelties on those whom he feared. From 1800-1804 there was continuous warfare between the Kandyan king and the English in the low-country. From that time to 1815 there was no open war, but destructive raids were made by either party when opportunity afforded to destroy a village or to burn a harvest. In 1812 Pilima Talāva attempted a rebellion, but failed, and was beheaded with several members of his family. He was succeeded by Ehelepola, who in 1814 also revolted, and was forced to flee to Colombo, while the king revenged himself upon his wife and family.