SRI LANKA CULTURE
TRADITIONS
Sri Lanka is an island nation with a history spanning thousands of years and is a treasure trove of traditions and customs. Its diverse culture, influenced by Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam and Christianity reflects the island's rich heritage and the harmonious coexistence of various ethnic groups.
Religious Festivals
Religious festivals are at the heart of Sri Lankan traditions. The Sinhala and Tamil New Year, celebrated in April is one of the most significant festivals. It marks the end of the harvest season and is observed with rituals, traditional games and the preparation of special foods like kiribath (milk rice). The Vesak festival which commemorates the birth, enlightenment and death of Lord Buddha is another major celebration. During Vesak, the entire island is adorned with lanterns and illuminated decorations and people participate in almsgivings and other acts of charity. Hindu festivals like Deepavali, the Festival of Lights and Thai Pongal are celebrated with great fervour by the Tamil community. They are celebrated with rangoli floor decorations, lanterns, candles and oil lamps. For Thai Pongal, the community enjoys Pongal rice, a special dish made of milk and jaggery (palm sugar). Prayer recitations, gathering with loved ones and exchanging gifts are common practices. The Muslim community observes Ramadan and Eid, while the Christian community celebrates Christmas and Easter. These celebrations follow worldwide traditions, such as religious services, family gatherings and feasts.
Traditional Dance and Music
Sri Lanka's traditional dance forms are vibrant expressions of its cultural diversity. Kandyan dance, originating from the hill country is the most famous and features intricate costumes, rhythmic drumming and energetic movements. The devil dances, or yakun natima are a unique ritualistic tradition performed to ward off evil spirits and cure ailments. Music is deeply embedded in Sri Lankan traditions, with drums being a central element. The gata bera, yak bera and dawula are some of the traditional drums used in religious ceremonies and cultural performances. Folk songs, often related to agriculture and daily life are passed down through generations and remain an integral part of rural life.
Traditional Attire
Traditional clothing in Sri Lanka varies by ethnicity and occasion. The saree is the quintessential attire for Sinhalese and Tamil women, draped elegantly in different styles depending on the region. The osariya, a Kandyan style of saree, is particularly distinctive. Men often wear the sarong, a long piece of cloth wrapped around the waist, paired with a shirt or traditional jacket. During religious ceremonies, women wear white sarees or dresses, symbolising purity, while men also opt for white garments. The clothing worn during festivals and special occasions is often colourful, featuring intricate designs and rich fabrics.
Culinary Traditions
Sri Lankan cuisine is a reflection of its diverse cultural influences, blending flavours from India, Southeast Asia and the Middle East. Rice and curry are staples, with a variety of vegetable, fish and meat dishes cooked in aromatic spices. Coconut is a key ingredient, used in everything from curries to sweets. Traditional sweets like kokis, aluwa and kavum are made during festive seasons. Tea is the national beverage, and a cup of Ceylon tea is often enjoyed with a piece of jaggery or a slice of cake.
Family and Social Customs
Family plays a central role in Sri Lankan society with strong bonds between generations. Respect for elders is deeply ingrained and it is common for extended families to live together or maintain close ties. Weddings are elaborate affairs that often incorporate both traditional and modern elements and they serve as important social gatherings. Hospitality is a valued tradition in Sri Lanka. Guests are warmly welcomed and offered food and drink. Even unexpected visitors are treated in this fashion. Sharing meals and celebrating together, whether during festivals or family occasions are key aspects of social life.
