King Kashyapa I

Kashyapa I (473–495 CE) is one of Sri Lanka's most enigmatic rulers, infamous for patricide and famed for constructing Sigiriya—a fortress-palace atop a monolithic rock. After murdering his father Dhatusena and usurping the throne, he relocated the capital to Sigiriya, creating a defensive stronghold adorned with frescoes and hydraulic gardens. His 22-year reign blended paranoia (fearing his exiled brother Moggallana's vengeance) with artistic brilliance. Eventually, Moggallana returned with an army; Kashyapa I died in battle. His legacy is dual: architectural genius marred by moral transgression, illustrating the tension between aesthetic achievement and ethical kingship.

The final battle against his brother Moggallana took place on the plains near Sigiriya. According to legend, Kashyapa's war elephant turned aside to avoid a patch of muddy ground. His army, interpreting this movement as a retreat, panicked and fled.

Abandoned and facing defeat, the proud king drew his dagger and cut his own throat, raising the blade in a final defiant salute before falling. This dramatic end marked the return of the capital to Anuradhapura.