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Festivals |
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<ul>Sri Lankan culture is best displayed in their festivals. There are many festivals that belong to different faiths and ethnicities commemorate on a grand scale throughout the year. Some significant and spectacular festivals are Sinhala New Year, Vesak festival, Poson festival, Perahera, Sri Pada (Adam’s Peak) pilgrimage, and Vel festival.<br>
<br>Almost all the festivals and special occasions are celebrated with traditional Sri Lankan dance. There are three traditional dance forms that are associated with the ritualistic practices of the Sinhalese in Sri Lanka. The dance form belonging to the up-country region is known as “Udarata Natum” or Kandyan dance and that which is found in the southern coastal area is called “Pahatharata Natum” or low-country dance. The dance which is practiced in the province of Sabaragamuwa is referred to as “Sabaragamu Dance”. Especially at the Perahera celebrations, three dance forms are displayed vibrantly.<br>
<br>They are fantastic, interactive, and visually stunning cultural shows that entertaining visitors of any age from any continent.<br>
<br><b>Sinhala New Year</b><br>
<br>Traditional Sinhala and Hindu New Year in Sri Lanka is celebrated in the month of April. It marks the ending of the solar circuit and is considered auspicious by Sinhalese and Hindus. <br>
<br><b>Vesak Festival</b><br>
<br>The full-moon day in the month of May called “Vesak Poya Day”, commemorating the Birth, Enlightenment, and Demise of Lord Buddha. Vesak festival is celebrated with a blaze of lights, lanterns, and huge illuminated displays of pandols, and Thoranas. Food or drink donations at roadside booths at which free refreshments are distributed to all passers-by.<br>
<br><b>Poson Festival</b><br>
<br>Pososn festival is celebrated on the Full Moon Poya Day in the month of June. Officially introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka was occurred on this day by Arahat Mahinda, the son of Emperor Asoka in India in the 3rd Century BC. <br>
<br><b>Perahera</b><br>
<br>In the months of July and August the most fascinating cultural shows, the Kandy Esala perahara, and Kataragama perahera were held. The colorful processions are held for two weeks to express respect and sacrifice to the tooth relic of the Load Buddha and the God of Kataragama. <br>
<br><b>Sri Pada Pilgrimage</b><br>
<br>Sri Pada also called Adam's Peak, is a tapering mountain 7,360 feet above sea level, soaring clear above the surrounding mountain ranges. However, the altitude is no damper to the thousands of pilgrims who climb the mountain in endless procession during the early period of every year. When you climb it you see the clouds below you, shutting out your view of the base.<br>
<br><b>Vel Festival</b><br>
<br>The Vel Festival is celebrated by Hindus to honor Lord Sri Murukan. To mark the beginning of the Vel Festival, an ornate silver-plated chariot that contains the ayudha (weapons) and a statue of Lord Murukan is drawn by a pair of snow-white bulls or sometimes by hundreds of devotees dressed in an egalitarian white waistcloth.</ul>
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12/16/18, 6:02 AM |
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Places of worship |
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<ul><p>Places of worship in Sri Lanka have displayed their religious harmony. Sri Lanka has been a center of Buddhism for more than 2500 years. However a quarter of Sri Lankan people following other faiths of Hinduism, Christianity, and Islam.<br>
<br>There are some places of worship that belong to all faiths in Sri Lanka. Sri Pada or Adam’s Peak is one such place where the footprint at the top of the mountain held to greatly depend on your faith. Kataragama is another such place where people of all faiths are visiting for worship. </p><p><br></p><p>Most of the places of worship have built more than 200 years ago. Therefore those religious places also have historic value. </p></ul> |
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12/29/18, 2:11 AM |
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Architecture |
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<ul>Traditional architecture in Sri Lanka has displayed a rich variety of architectural forms and styles. It is closely based on religious beliefs as most other Sri Lankan arts. Undoubtedly, Buddhism was influenced most and Hinduism also played an important role in Sri Lankan traditional architecture.<br>
<br>Since Sri Lanka has been occupied by three generations of colonization, beginning with the Portuguese, then by the Dutch and finally the British, the architecture in Sri Lanka has been influenced by those three cultures through the course of time.<br>
<br>Modern Sri Lankan architecture was flourished by Geoffrey Manning Bawa, popularly known as Geoffrey Bawa (23 July 1919 – 27 May 2003). He was one of the most influential Asian architects of his generation. He was the pioneer in introducing architecture tradition called “Tropical Modernism”.<br>
<br><b>Buddhist Architecture</b><br>
<br><i><b>Stupa</b></i><br>
<br>One of the most dominant characters of Buddhist architecture is the Stupa (Dagoba), which can be seen throughout the Island. Jetawanaramaya is the largest Stupa constructed in the world.<br>
<br><i><b>Vatadage</b></i><br>
<br>“Vatadage” has considered the most perfect and exquisite architectural creation in ancient Sri Lanka. it is a circular relic house enclosing a small Stupa with a wooden roof and Buddha images in the four cardinal directions. Medirigiriya, Tiriyaya, and Polonnaruwa vatadage still have their circles of slender, graceful pillars.<br>
<br><i><b>Bodhighara</b></i><br>
<br>The ritual activities developed centered on the Bodhi tree resulted in an architectural feature called Bodhighara or Bodhi-tree house. This was a roofed structure over the circumambulatory path that runs around the sacred tree.<br>
<br><i><b>Uposathaghara</b></i><br>
<br>"Uposathaghara" or chapter house was a monument used for the Uposatha ceremony and at times as a monastic dwelling. The best example is the Lovamahapaya at Anuradhapura; a storeyed structure with 1600 pillars, first constructed in the 2nd century BC.<br>
<br><i><b>Image House</b></i><br>
<br>A brick shrine with a vaulted roof, as seen in Polonnaruwa, at Thuparamaya, Lankatilaka, and Tivanka Pilimage, is unique to Sri Lanka. Thuparama Image House is the best place to examine how the vaulted roof was created by ancient Sri Lankan architects. <br>
<br><i><b>Cave Temples</b></i><br>
<br>The drip ledged cave shelters were used as a monastery in ancient Sri Lanka. The top edge of the rock cave was carved to stop the rainwater running into the cave. The roof and walls were plastered white and decorated with paintings.<br>
<br><i><b>Meditation Temple (Padhanagara)</b></i><br>
<br>The hermit monks who engaged in deep meditation called the “Aranyavasikas” or the “forest dwellers” were a characteristic feature of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. A few locations such as Ritigala, Arankele, and western monasteries in Anuradhapura have been identified as the places called "padhanagara" or meditation temples, inhabited by these monks, which are unique to Sri Lanka.<br>
<br><i><b>Temple of the Tooth Relic</b></i><br>
<br>From the 5th Century AD, there were buildings designed for the Sacred Tooth Relic. These were placed in the vicinity of the royal palace within the citadel. Temples called Atadage and Hetadage at Polonnaruwa are examples.<br>
<br><b>Hindu Architecture</b><br>
<br>A Hindu temple basically consists of a prayer hall and a shrine room. The central edifice is called a sikhara, usually in a domed or pyramid shape, which is elaborately decorated with sculptures and brightly coloured.<br>
<br><b>European Architecture</b><br>
<br>Traditional architecture in Sri Lanka was highly influenced by European architecture during their occupations. The Portuguese tiled roof building with its verandah are hardly found but the Dutch and the British architectural building can be found around the country. <br>
<br><b>Geoffrey Bawa - Architectural Legend in modern Sri Lanka</b><br>
<br>Geoffrey Bawa, an architectural Legend in modern Sri Lanka is a national treasure. He was the person who links the ancient architecture of the country with that of the modern world and left behind a legacy that will last for decades. Bawa’s buildings are aesthetically stunning, and the philosophy behind his work which radiance of a broad culture shines forth from the work of this genius.
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2/3/19, 5:56 AM |
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Sri Lankan Art |
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<ul>Sri Lankan art tradition goes back to the prehistoric era. Most of the prehistoric arts were drawn on the cave walls. Prehistoric arts can be found in Kurullangala rock in Ella, Andiyagala, and Billawa in Anuradhapura and Dorawak Kanda cave in Kegalle and Sithulpawwa vihara premises.<br>
<br>According to the Mahavamsa, the art of painting existed in the country long before the arrival of Buddhism. Clans of artists came with a branch of the Sri Maha Bodhi tree influence greatly on the development of arts in the country.<br>
<br><b>Sculptures & Paintings</b><br>
<br>The relief sculptures of the front pieces (vahalkadas) of ancient stupas, dating from the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD, and their platforms depicting the relief sculptures are the earliest evidence of Sri Lankan sculptures that can be found.<br>
<br>Moonstone, Guard-stone, and the flight of step usually found at the entrance to Buddhist shrine rooms, houses of the Bodhi or stupas, unique to Sri Lanka are an excellent example of the high degree of competence in creating sculptural works by the Sri Lankan artists.<br>
<br>The Moonstone, (“Sandakada Pahana” in Sinhala), is a semicircular stone slab at the foot of a flight of steps to a shrine room. A slab of plain stone was used in the initial stages of sculpting. A lotus flower was chiseled in the centre. Decorative features were then engraved in concentric semicircles around it. The outermost decoration being the conventional flames, followed by a row of four beasts, namely an elephant, a horse, a lion and a bull chasing each other in a procession. A creeper with a wavy stem and intricate foliage comprises the next band, followed by a band of swans.<br>
<br>The two Guard-stones (“Muragal” in Sinhala) for the flight of steps are joined by a set of decorative balustrades (“Korawak-gal” in Sinhala). In the initial stages, these were also devoid of sculptural work and a full vase would have been set before them. At a later date, the figure of a cobra would be engraved on them. The Nagas (Cobra) are considered as the guardians of water, celestial as well as terrestrial.<br>
<br>Sigiri frescoes were the earliest datable paintings found in Sri Lanka that belongs to the 5th Century AD. The most comprehensive body of paintings can be found at the Tivanka image house Polonnaruva that belongs to the 12th Century AD.<br>
<br>Sri Lankan art tradition was transformed from classical naturalism into a highly stylistic art form during the13th to the 18th century. In that period artistic remains at Dambadeniya, Yapahuwa, Kurunegala, Gampola, Kotte, and Sitawaka kingdoms were solely restricted to sculpture and carvings. The stylistic art form can be seen in the wall paintings and sculptures of the 18th and 19th centuries. Paintings and sculptures of the Kandy period (Central Kandyan tradition) are found in numerous temples in Kandy and other regions.<br>
<br>The paintings in the 20th Century comprise an impressive diversity in styles. That can be seen in George Keyt murals at Gotami Vihara, the Solius Mendis murals at Kelaniya Raja Maha Viiharaya, and the numerous murals by M.Sarlis.<br>
<br><b>Traditional dance</b><br>
<br>The origin of the traditional dances of Sri Lanka lies with the indigenous folk and it has evolved through time as a result of various foreign influences and internal transformations. There are three classical dance forms that are associated with the ritualistic practices of the Sinhalese in Sri Lanka. The division of the dances occurred as a result of the diversity of the rituals in various parts of the island. Consequently, the dance form belonging to the up-country region is known as “Udarata Natum” or Kandyan dance and that which is found in the southern coastal area is called “Pahatharata Natum” or low-country dance. The dance which is practiced in the province of Sabaragamuwa is referred to as “Sabaragamu Dance” is in keeping with its provincial name.<br>
<br>The propitiation of supernatural entities often originated as a result of folk beliefs. These were categorized into three groups; i.e. Gods, demons, and the planets. The main ritual which is held on behalf of the deities in the upcountry region is called the Kohob Yak Kankariya, while the Devol Maduwa, Gammaduwa, PunaMaduwa, etc. are also held with similar intentions of propitiating the gods in the southern regions of the island. The Pahan Maduwa is the main ritual performed in order to appease the gods in the Sabaragamu dance tradition.<br>
<br>Every dance form has its own characteristics, from drums, and costumes, to music and movements. In terms of the percussion instruments used to provide rhythmic support for the dances, the Geta Bera or the Kandyan drum is used during a Kandyan dance. While the Pahatharata Beraya or the low-country drum is used as the main percussion instrument in low-country dance, and the Daula is the accompaniment of Sabaragamu dance.
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2/3/19, 7:42 AM |
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Ayurveda, Panchakarma |
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<ul>According to the <i>Pertanika Journal of Social Sciences & Humanities</i>, there is a direct link between globalization and stress. In the present globalized world, you need to have a solution to manage the stress and review your lifestyle. Ayurveda treatments are the best practice that you can exercise for stress management. <br>
<br>There is no better place other than Sri Lanka to experience the best Ayurvedic treatments in the world. That is why Robert Knox, the British sea captain captivated in Sri Lanka for 21 years, wrote in his book named <i>"An Historical Relation of the Island Ceylon"</i> in 1681; <br>
<br><i><b>“Here are no professed physicians or surgeons, but all, in general, have some skill that way, and are physicians and surgeons to themselves".… “</b></i><br>
<br>The earliest system of medicine that existed in Sri Lanka, before the advent of Ayurveda, was "Desiya chikithsa" or "Sinhala vedekama". From generation to generation that was handed down. However, in spite of profound Indian influence, Ayurveda, indigenous medical knowledge was developed independently and has a number of distinctive features that separate it from other medical systems. <br>
<br>Most of the Sri Lankan hotels and Vills have an Ayurveda Pavilion as part of their vision of creating world-class health resorts that promote good health in both mind and body. Together with a highly specialized team of Ayurvedic doctors, therapists, and hotel specialists, they set up a dedicated facility to offer an undisturbed and peaceful oasis of relaxation and regeneration.</ul> |
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2/3/19, 7:55 AM |
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Tea holidays |
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<ul>Ceylon tea, the best tea in the world is recognized for its high antioxidants level, dropping the danger of developing cancer, and help to prevent oral infections.<br>
<br>The commercial cultivation of tea in Sri Lanka was started in 1867 by the Scotsman, James Taylor at Loolecondera estate in Kandy It was a 19-acre tea plantation. In 1873 he was able to export the first Ceylon tea consignment of 23 lbs from Loolecondera Estate to London.<br>
<br>There are different varieties of teas that can be found in Sri Lanka namely White tea, Green tea, oolong tea, and most common black tea. Some plantation fields and factories specialized for the above verities.<br>
<br>Tea plantations are at the rocky, remote central highlands where rolling hills spread for miles. The weather is cooler than the coast. The mountains are spotted with lakes, waterfalls, and tea factories.<br>
<br>Do you ever wonder how your favorite brand of tea reaches your kitchen shelf and the process behind it before blending into our cups?<br> <br>We offer you the opportunity to visit the central highland tea plantations and low country tea plantations, stay at tea bungalows, intermingling with tea workers, plucking tea leaves on your own, and visiting tea factories.<br>
<br>Since as we are Sri Lankans our culture is dedicated to hospitality first and foremost. Therefore we know very well how to serve a wonderfully delicious cup of tea at any time of the day.<br>
<br><b><i>Just imagine having a sip of a Ceylon tea whilst enjoying the feeling of relaxation at lush green tea plantations, a tranquil ambiance and loads of old-worldly charm in a verdant highland of Sri Lanka would be nothing short of a delight.</i></b>
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2/3/19, 8:17 AM |
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Handicrafts |
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<ul>Sri Lankan handicrafts were originally simple products made out of the material available in the immediate environment, but with the passage of time, specializations were achieved and guilds were formed.<br>
<br>According to Mahavamsa, when King Vijaya was landing in Sri Lanka in the 6th Century BC he met Kuveni, a local woman spinning cotton. <br>
<br>Sri Lanka has an extensive variety of traditional handicrafts and a tradition of making handicrafts which represent the rich craftsmanship tradition tracing back as long as the nation's existence. <br>
<br>The different crafts were developed in the areas where the required raw materials were available. The artistic and technological skills of producing handicrafts are inherited and passed down from generation to generation. The necessary tools and implements used in producing handicrafts are fabricated by the craftsmen themselves. <br>
<br>Visiting local craftsmen's traditional villages is an amazing experience. You can meet skilled craftsmen discover their age-old traditional methods and understand the skills behind them. </ul>
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2/3/19, 10:43 AM |
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Sri Lankan Cuisines |
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<ul>Sri Lanka has been a famous spice producer and trader for centuries of years ago. As such Sri Lankan cuisines are world-famous for their taste and nutrition.<br>
<br>Boiled rice with curried vegetables, augmented with spices is the typical Sri Lankan food. It can be served as lunch and dinner or sometimes as breakfast as well. As an island fresh seafood are available throughout the country. Sri Lankan curries are usually hot and spicy. Sri Lankan food tradition is varied with the region and the ethnicity.<br>
<br>The unique Sri Lankan foods that you must taste during your stay are:<br>
<br><b>Kiribat (Milk rice)</b><br>
<br>Milk rice is a traditional Sri Lankan food prepared by cooking rice with coconut milk served with onion Sambola <i>(lunu miris)</i>or bananas. It is a popular food served on auspicious and festive occasions. It has varieties mixed with a green gram called <i>Mun kiribath</i>, and a center filled with a mix of coconut and honey called <i>Imbul Kiribath</i> <br>
<br><b>Sweetmeats</b><br>
<br>Traditional juicy sweetmeats are commonly prepared during Sinhala new year celebrations and other special occasions. These include <i>Kavum, Kokis, Asmi, Aluwa, Welitalapa, Mun Kevum, Halape, Aggala, Thalaguli,</i> etc.<br>
<br><b>Fish Ambul Thiyal (Sour fish curry)</b><br>
<br>Cubed fish (usually tuna) is sautéed in a blend of spices cooked until the spice mixture to coat each cube and dry.<br>
<br><b>Hoppers</b><br>
<br>Sri Lankan version of thin pancakes with crispy edges is called hoppers.<br>
<br><b>Polos (Green Jackfruit curry)</b><br>
<br>Jack fruit, both the unripe and ripe fruit is very popular in the country. The young green jackfruit called polos is sliced into small chunks and boiled until soft. It's then cooked with onions, garlic, ginger, spices, curry powder, and curry leaves. Coconut milk has to be added towards the end and simmered to reduce most of the liquid, leaving all the beautiful flavors within the cubes of jack fruit.</ul>
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2/3/19, 10:56 AM |
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Vedda, Sri Lankan aboriginal |
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<ul><b><i>"I was born in the forest. My ancestors come from there. We are forest beings, and I want to live and die here. And even if I were reborn just as a fly or an ant, I would still be happy so long as I knew I would come back to live in the forest."</i></b><br>
<br><b>-Late Uru Warige Tissahamy, Chief of the Vaddas Clan-</b><br>
<br>Veddas, or as they call themselves as the Wanniya-laeto, the indigenous people of Sri Lanka are descendants of Sri Lanka’s Neolithic community. They have self-identified themselves as native communities such as Bintenne Veddas mainly in Dambana, Anuradhapura Veddas mainly in Anuradhapura, and Coastal Veddas mainly in Vakarai.<br>
<br>The lifestyle of Veddas is intertwined with forest ecology because they are Forest Dwellers. They used bows and arrows for hunting. They ate wild plants, yams, honey, fruit, and nuts with a meat-rich diet and they did chena cultivation. The Coastal Vaddas is an expert fisherman and they used harpoons and toxic plants for fishing.<br>
<br>The original language use by Vaddas is called Vadda language but today it is used merely especially during hunting and religious activities. They follow a mix of animism and Buddhism and practice a cult of the dead and worshipped their relatives called “Nae Yakku”. “Kiri Koraha” the traditional dance of Veddha is performing to obtain the blessings of their gods. They used to wear traditional clothing until recent times. Men wore loincloths and women wore a piece of cloth that extended from the navel to the knees.<br>
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2/3/19, 11:15 AM |
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