Sri Lanka is a land rich in culture and tradition. One of the most vibrant aspects of its heritage is its dance style. Dance in Sri Lanka reflects the country’s history, beliefs, and social customs. This article will look at the classical and folk dance styles of Sri Lanka. It will cover their origins and importance in the culture.
Classical Dance Styles of Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka has three main classical dance styles: Kandyan, Ruhunu, and Saparagamu. Each of these dance styles has its unique characteristics, movements, and cultural significance.
1. Kandyan Dancing (Uda Rata Natum)
Kandyan dancing is one of the most famous dance styles in Sri Lanka. It originates from the central hills of the island, particularly in the city of Kandy. Here are some key features of Kandyan dancing:
- Movements: Kandyan dancers perform graceful and intricate movements. Dancers often perform with a strong emphasis on footwork and body posture. The dance tells stories through expressive gestures and movements.
- Costumes: The costumes worn in Kandyan dancing are elaborate and colourful. Dancers wear traditional clothes. Their outfit includes a long skirt and a fitted top. They also wear a headdress decorated with flowers and jewels.
- Drumming: The Geta Bere is the main drum used in Kandyan dancing. It has a unique shape, tapering on both ends. Drummers play the drum with their hands to create rhythmic patterns for the dance.
- Cultural Significance: Kandyan dancing is often performed during religious ceremonies and festivals. One of the most important events is the Kandy Perahera. It is a grand procession held every year. This event honours the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha.
2. Ruhunu Dancing (Low Country Dancing / Pahatharata Natum)
Ruhunu dancing is another classical dance style from Sri Lanka’s coastal areas. It also comes from the low-country regions. This dance style has its roots in ancient rituals and ceremonies. Here are some features of Ruhunu dancing:
- Movements: Ruhunu dancing features lively and energetic movements. Dancers often perform in groups, showcasing their skills and coordination.
- Costumes: The costumes in Ruhunu dancing are also vibrant and eye-catching. Dancers often wear masks that represent various deities and spirits. This adds a unique visual element to the performance.
- Drumming: The Yak Bere is the drum used in Ruhunu dancing. It has a cylindrical shape and people play it with their hands. The rhythmic beats of the Yak Bere enhance the lively atmosphere of the dance.
- Cultural Significance: Ruhunu dancing is closely associated with rituals to propitiate deities. It is often performed during ceremonies like Devol Maduwa. This ceremony aims to appease the deity Devol.
3. Saparagamu Dancing (Sabaragamuwa Natum)
Saparagamu dancing is the third classical dance style of Sri Lanka. It is primarily practised in the Saparagamuwa province, particularly in Ratnapura. Here are some key features of Saparagamu dancing:
- Movements: Saparagamu dancing includes a mix of graceful and vigorous movements. The dance often portrays stories related to agriculture and nature.
- Costumes: The costumes in Saparagamu dancing are simpler. They are not as elaborate as those in Kandyan and Ruhunu dancing. However, they still reflect the cultural heritage of the region.
- Drumming: The Davula is the drum used in Saparagamu dancing. It has a unique shape, with one side played with a stick and the other side played with the hand. The Davula adds a distinctive rhythm to the dance.
- Cultural Significance: Saparagamu dancing connects with agricultural rituals. The Gam Maduwa ritual honours the deity Pattini. It seeks blessings for a good harvest.
The Influence of Folk Dance Styles
Apart from the classical dance styles, Sri Lanka is also home to various folk dance styles. These dances are often associated with local traditions, festivals, and everyday life. Here are some popular folk dance styles in Sri Lanka:
1. Leekeli (Stick Dance)
- Description: Leekeli is a lively stick dance performed by groups of dancers. Participants use sticks to create rhythmic patterns while dancing.
- Cultural Significance: Leekeli is often performed during celebrations and festivals. It showcases the community spirit and teamwork of the dancers.
2. Kalageldi (Pot Dance)
- Description: Kalageldi is a unique dance style. Dancers balance pots on their heads while performing intricate movements. This dance requires skill and balance.
- Cultural Significance: Kalageldi is often performed during cultural events and celebrations. It highlights the traditional practices of the Sri Lankan people.
3. Raban (Hand Drum) Dance
- Description: Raban dance involves the use of a hand drum called the Raban. Dancers create rhythmic beats while showcasing their dance skills.
- Cultural Significance: This dance is often performed at festivals and celebrations. It brings joy and entertainment to the audience.
4. Kolam Dance-Drama
- Description: Kolam is a dance-drama that combines dance, music, and theatre. Performers wear masks that show animals or people. These masks add a theatrical touch to the performance.
- Cultural Significance: Kolam often includes social satire and humour. Performers wear masks of animals or people. The masks make the performance more dramatic.
The Importance of Dance in Sri Lankan Culture
Dance styles in Sri Lanka play a crucial role in the country’s cultural identity. Here are some reasons why dance is significant in Sri Lankan society:
1. Preservation of Tradition
Dance styles help preserve the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka. They pass down stories, beliefs, and customs from one generation to the next.
2. Community Bonding
Dance brings people together. Dancing helps build a sense of community. It does this whether it’s a classical performance or a folk dance at a festival.
3. Expression of Identity
Dance styles allow individuals to express their cultural identity. Each dance form shows the unique traits of its region. They highlight the diversity of Sri Lankan culture.
4. Spiritual Connection
Many dance styles are linked to religious rituals and ceremonies. They serve as a means of connecting with deities and seeking blessings for the community.
The Influence of Buddhism
Sri Lankan dance has changed over the centuries. Some dance forms have stayed the same, while others have evolved. For example, the Kolam dance-drama likely developed from the Sanni Yakuma ritual. Even with this change, Kolam has kept its unique style. The Kandyan dance form was also adapted, blending traditional movements with new elements. Dance traditions in Sri Lanka keep changing. They reflect both old influences and new trends. They showcase the rich cultural heritage of the island.
The Evolution of Dance Traditions
Sri Lankan dance has changed over the centuries. Some dance forms have stayed the same, while others have evolved. For example, the Kolam dance-drama likely came from the Sanni Yakuma ritual. Despite this, Kolam still keeps its unique style. The Kandyan dance has also evolved, mixing traditional moves with new influences. Modern dance forms now blend old traditions with contemporary trends. These changes show how Sri Lankan dance adapts to both history and current times.
The Future of Sri Lankan Dance
As Sri Lanka modernizes, people worry about preserving traditional dance. Global influences make this challenge even greater. Many people fear that these old dance forms might disappear. To address this, people are working hard to keep these traditions alive. Dance schools and cultural groups are teaching and promoting Sri Lankan dance. They ensure that future generations learn these art forms. These efforts support the growth and continued evolution of traditional dance.
Conclusion
Sri Lanka has many dance forms. Each one has its features and cultural meaning. Kandyan dancing shows great elegance. Ruhunu and Saparagamu dancing are full of energy and exuberance. These classical dances reflect the island’s rich heritage.
Sri Lanka also has folk dances like Leekeli, Kalageldi, and Kolam. Celebrating these dances helps us connect with Sri Lankan traditions. They also reflect the beliefs that shaped society. Dance is not just an art; it’s a way of life and a means of self-expression. It links the past with the present.
Exploring Sri Lankan dance styles offers a deep look into its culture, whether you’re a local or a visitor. Understanding and appreciating these traditions helps them survive. This way, they can continue for years to come.
