SriLankan Dance Culture

  The Kandyan Dance (උඩරට නැටුම්) The Hill Country's Rhythmic Soul The most famous of Sri Lanka's many artistic traditions is Kandyan Dance (Uda Rata Natum), which is proudly preserved on the island. This traditional dance, which has its origins in Kandy, the capital of the hill country, is ingrained in the customs of the Dalada Perahera (Temple of the Tooth Relic) and is still a source of pride for the country. History and Origins Originating in the 16th century, Kandyan dance was greatly influenced by Indian classical dances before evolving into a distinctive Sri Lankan style over the ages. The dance was originally done by men as a part of a religious rite called the Kohomba Kankariya ( කොහොඹා කංකාරිය ) , and it was thought to bring blessings and keep villages safe from harm.                  Motions and Style What Kandyan Dance is known for: Graceful yet strong movements that resemble nature, animals, or gods. Amazing acrobatics and b...

  Low Country Dance (පහතරට නැටුම්) The Spirit of the Southern Shores The mystical and spiritual traditions of Sri Lanka's southern coastal regions are reflected in Low Country Dance ( පහතරට නැටුම් ), which stands out for its elegance, reminiscent of the hill country's royal heritage. One of the most culturally significant dance forms on the island, this style has strong ties to exorcism, healing rites, and folk beliefs. The Rituals and Purpose The nature of Low Country Dance is ritualistic. Its main function is to ward off evil spirits and heal illnesses that are thought to have supernatural causes. The following performances are a part of Thovil ceremonies or Shanthikarma (blessing rituals); Bali Thovil (බලි තොවිල්): for ceremonies based on astrology. Sanni Yakuma (සන්නි යැකුම) : a theatrical exorcism ritual, involving 18  demons called  Sanni yakku (සන්නි යක්කු)  and each representing a specific illness or affliction. Mask and Costumes Dancers wear in; Each of th...