Heritage & Preserving
Contents
Language
Despite the fact that Sinhala is the most widely spoken language in Sri Lanka, Tamil is also commonly spoken. A few words of English, which is commonly spoken in metropolitan areas like as Colombo and Kandy and is gaining popularity throughout the island, can help you move about.
Dance
⊗ In the country, Uda Rata Natum is known as Kandyan dance. In this performance, costumed dancers simulate certain animal movements, which is frequently a recounting of the Indian Ramayana.
⊗ The Devil Dance, also known as Pahatha Rata Natum, is a low country dance done to appease bad spirits in southern Sri Lanka. The dancers wear masks and dress up like birds, devils, and reptiles.
⊗ Sabaragamuwa dance is a cross of Kandyan and low-country dancing. The main purpose of this dance, which is predominantly practised in Ratnapura, is to honour Saman’s God.
⊗ Classical folk dance, which exhibits regional and historical traits, is also practised in Sri Lanka. Some of the most prominent classical folk dance styles today include stick dancing, pot dancing, hand drumming, and polkatu dancing.
Clothing
The sarong is the traditional male dress in Sri Lanka, whereas sarees are the traditional female costume. Men of all ages wear sarongs or trouser/jeans to almost every function. Women wear sarees to formal and informal gatherings, as well as to work. Older women prefer this look, whilst little girls prefer the classic skirt and blouse look.
Music
Baila music began in Portugal and is currently popular in Sri Lankan clubs, parties, and other social occasions. Folk music comprises a minimal number of instruments and offers a small frequency range. Folk songs and poems encourage individuals to work together during a social event. Sri Lankan country music includes advanced pageantry tradition, puppetry, and Nurthi – a stage theatre song. Classical music with Indian elements has grown into something distinctive as well. We also have traditional Sri Lankan theatre, music, and songs.
Sri Lankan music is influenced by four major figures.
⊗ Ancient folk rituals
⊗ Buddhist religious practices
⊗ European colonialism’s legacy
⊗ Indian culture’s influence, particularly Bollywood music
Arts and Crafts
Many stores provide a diverse selection of arts and crafts, which you may encounter as you travel around the country. Laksala and Lakpura are two well-known Colombo stores that provide one-of-a-kind arts and crafts that may be taken home as souvenirs from Sri Lanka.
Masks: Masks are deeply established in Sri Lankan mythology and are used in healing rites and rituals. These masks have become very popular at devil dances.
Handloom: Handwoven textiles in vibrant colours and designs are increasingly appealing to consumers. There are handloom curtains, pillow covers, purses, bedsheets, sarees, clothes, book covers, and many other items available!
Beeralu Lace: Beeralu Lace is a lacemaking tradition that began with Dutch and Portuguese women and is now practised by women in Sri Lankan homes. The intricate patterns made by the hands in the trade of lacemaking are fascinating to observe.
Drums (Bera): Drums constructed of Jack Tree and animal hide need a high level of craftsmanship.
Jewellery Making: The manufacture of jewellery has grown to worldwide standards, with classic and inventive designs drawing consumers from all over the world.
Lacquer Work (Laksha): It is a significant emblem of Sri Lankan culture because of its brilliant and colourful embellishments, which are completed with an insect-derived wax lacquer.
Clay (Pottery): Pottery is one of Sri Lanka’s oldest crafts, and it’s still a favourite hobby for tourists.
Wood Carving: Carving in wood is a centuries-old craft that may be found on furniture, household goods, jewellery, boxes, decorations, toys, sculptures, lacquer work, and other items.
Batik: Batik, which is influenced by Indonesian culture, is the creation of fabrics with unique designs and colour combinations that are then utilised to produce clothing.
