Sri Lanka is renowned as the 'Wonder of Asia,' since it not only has a plethora of breathtaking natural wonders, but it also possesses distinctive characteristics of South Asian culture. Dance is among the most distinctive characteristics of Sri Lankan culture, and it leaves a lasting imprint on visitors' memories. This article provides you with some crucial facts about Sri Lanka's traditional dances and culture.
The Kandyan Dance
The Kandyan Dance is one of the national dances of Sri Lanka, and it was popular during the reign of the Kandyan Kings. The outfits and costumes of the dancers are remarkable; male dancers adorn skirt-like clothing with their bare chests adorned with silver regalia, as well as their heads accessorised with a stunning headgear resembling a peacock. They also carry a drum known as the Gata Beraya, which is used exclusively for Kandyan dance. The essence of Kandyan dance is what distinguishes it from other forms of dance in this country and has helped it to become one of the national dances in the country. It recounts events from the Ramayana theatre or legends of kings as well as heroes, so each movement of a dancer is vivid, imitating the movement of animals including peacocks and elephants. So each move of the dancer is perfectly striking. The Kandyan dance is divided into four minor types: the Ves Dance, the Pantheru Dance, the Udekki Dance, and the Naiyandi Dance.
Low Country Dance (The Devil Dance)
Devil dance or the Masked Dance are two titles for this ancient Sri Lankan dance that has been performed for centuries. The term 'Masked Dance' derives from the costumes used by the dancers who execute the Low Country Dance. When executing the Low Country Dance, the dancers wear masks to depict various animals such as birds, demons, reptiles, and other things to show the slaying by the Gurula of Cobra. Apart from that, the dance is also conducted as a religious rite to drive away bad spirits and as a technique of mental therapy, which is why Low country dance is referred to as devil dance in certain circles. Ahungalla is the ideal place in Sri Lanka for traditional and cultural exposure. Apart from the tropical beaches here, people often also come here to indulge in traditional ceremonies and festivities where you can watch these performances. Make sure to book hotels in Ahungalla the likes of Heritance Ahungalla from where you can get to these events easily.
Sabaragamuwa Dance
This is yet another traditional dance performed to honour the God of Saman, and it is known as Sabaragamuwa Dance. This dance is said to have originated from an exorcism rite known as the KohombaKankariya, which is performed by shamans, according to tradition. The Sabaragamuwa dance, in contrast to the Kandyan dance, which is predominantly conducted by male dancers, is open to both men and women performers. Another interesting fact about this type of dance is that it contains elements of both Kandyan as well as Low Country dancing, as it is a hybrid of the two styles mentioned above.
Folk Dance
Folk dance is a style of classical dance that is related to traditional celebrations and activities in the community. Polkatu (coconut), Kalageti (pot dance), Raban (hand drum), Leekeli are examples of traditional Sri Lankan folk dance (stick dance).
Dance Drama
Dance drama (Kolam), yet another style of traditional dance in Sri Lanka, is presented by dancers who are dressed as animals, monarchs, or other high-ranking government figures. Rather than serving as a religious rite, the dance serves as a source of entertainment and societal satire.
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