The Kandyan resistance eventually coalesces around Konnappu Bandara, son of Wirasundara, who had fled to Portuguese lands following his father's murder by agents of Rajasinha.

He defeats Rajasinha in 1593 at Balane and Mawela, effectively securing Kandy's independence from Sitawaka.

Adopting the name Vimaladharmasuriya, he seizes the throne of Kandy, converts back to Buddhism, and marries Princess Kusmasana Devi who, as Dona Catherina, had been put forward by the Portuguese as the rightful claimant to the throne.

At the time of his coronation Buddhism is on the verge of disappearing from the island.

Learning that ordained Buddhist monks no longer exist on the island, he sends one of ministers to Southern Burma and reestablishes Buddhism in the island.

By this time the Relic of the tooth of the Buddha is hidden in Delgamuwa Raja Maha Vihara in Sabaragamuwa Province.

The king brings the Tooth relic to Kandy and builds a two-story Temple near the royal palace to house the relic.

He also repairs many ruined Buddhist temples throughout his kingdom.