Dharmapala of Kotte

Dharmapala or Dom João Dharmapala Peria Bandara (1541 – May 27, 1597) was last king of the Kingdom of Kotte, in present-day Sri Lanka, from 1551 until May 27, 1597. He is also known as Dom João Dharmapala, the first Christian king in Sri Lankan history. He is widely known as the last true King and ruler of the capital city Kotte; under Portuguese military occupation, he attempt to reorganise his military and pursue a treaty with the Portuguese to save the Sinhalese Kingdom.
Birth.
Dom João Dharmapala was born as the eldest child of Weediye Bandara, a Prince from Madampe and his wife Samudra Devi, daughter of King Bhuvanekabãhu VII the King of Kotte. His exact date of birth is unknown, but the year is commonly regarded as 1541. A golden statue was sent to Portugal to be crowned by the Portuguese. It was sent by his predecessor King Buwanekabahu VII.
King Dharmapala's decedents include the Goonewardene & Rodrigo family's of Kalutara who are of Karava cast.