17 Facts About Saw Binnya

Saw Binnya was able to build up a formidable military of his own, replete with Portuguese mercenaries and arms.

Saw Binnya was appointed viceroy of the province of Martaban, one of the three provinces of Hanthawaddy, by King Binnya Ran II, c 1510s.

Saw Binnya was probably of high Hanthawaddy royalty, since only the most senior princes were appointed viceroy.

Saw Binnya essentially declared independence from Pegu in 1534 by refusing to contribute to Takayutpi's war effort against Toungoo Dynasty as vassals were obligated to do.

Saw Binnya did not anticipate any immediate danger to his own realm as Toungoo without any foreign weapons repeatedly failed to take the Hanthawaddy capital Pegu, which was defended by foreign mercenaries.

Saw Binnya did not seem concerned by the arrival of the kingdom of Toungoo at his doorstep.

Saw Binnya reckoned that Toungoo had gained Pegu only through a ruse against an incompetent ruler like Takayutpi, and that when Pegu's defenses were led by capable leaders, Toungoo could not take Pegu for four years.

Saw Binnya believed that his Portuguese-backed military under his leadership could withstand any attack Toungoo could muster.

Saw Binnya had already heavily fortified the city with high walls that could withstand even Portuguese cannon; deployed seven Portuguese warships to guard the harbor; and enlisted foreign mercenaries led by Paulo de Seixas to lead the defenses.

Saw Binnya did not submit to the Toungoo king but responded that he would stay out of the fight.

Saw Binnya finally offered to surrender provided that he be allowed to remain viceroy in exchange for an annual tribute of 30,000 viss of silver bullion and other valuable presents.

Saw Binnya then asked for safe-conduct out of the city for himself and his entire family, together with his treasures.

In desperation, Saw Binnya appealed to the Portuguese viceroy at Goa for assistance, offering to become a vassal of Goa, in addition to an outright gift of half the amount of his treasury.

Inside the city, Saw Binnya, described as athletic and brave, led his forces atop a war elephant against the invaders.

Saw Binnya is said to have fought off several one-on-one combats on elephant-back.

Saw Binnya was finally defeated in combat by Commander Nanda Kyawthu, and was arrested.

Saw Binnya congratulated Nanda Kyawthu for his victory, and gave the Toungoo commander presents from his treasury.