Culture Show
Culture Show
- Traditional Masks Deeply rooted in the “Low Country” dance traditions of the southern coast, these shows bring to life the legend of the Ves Muhunu (masks). Hand-carved from the lightweight Kaduru wood and painted in vibrant, natural hues, each mask is a masterpiece of craftsmanship designed to personify gods, demons, and satirical village characters.
- Kandyan Dance (Uda Rata Natum): The most iconic of our dances. Watch as performers in shimmering silver regalia execute gravity-defying leaps and spins to the beat of the Geta Beraya drum
- Low Country Dance (Pahatha Rata Natum): A rhythmic, ritualistic style primarily performed in masks. It is a high-energy dialogue between the dancer and the Yak Beraya drum, often involving fire and mystical storytelling.
- Puppeteers: Rukada Natya The art of string puppetry, or Rukada Natya, is a rare and precious gem of Sri Lankan heritage, centered largely in the coastal town of Ambalangoda
Traditional Masks
Main Types of Traditional Masks There are three main categories:
Traditional masks in Sri Lanka are a unique cultural art form used in rituals, healing ceremonies, and folk theatre. They are colorful, expressive, and deeply connected to history and beliefs.
Raksha Masks (Demon Masks)
Raksha Masks (Demon Masks)
Represent demons and mythical creatures
Used in festivals and ritual dances
Features: bulging eyes, fangs, bright colors, sometimes multiple heads or cobra hoods
Purpose: protection and warding off evil spirits
Sanni Masks (Healing / Exorcism Masks)
Sanni Masks (Healing / Exorcism Masks)
Used in “Sanni Yakuma” healing rituals
Each mask represents a specific illness or condition
Traditionally there are 18 Sanni masks
Kolam Masks (Folk Drama Masks)
Kolam Masks (Folk Drama Masks)
Used in traditional folk theatre (Kolam dance)
Represent humans, animals, kings, clowns, villagers
More humorous and expressive than demon masks
Traditional Puppets Show
Traditional puppets in Sri Lanka are part of a unique folk theatre tradition called Rukada Natya (wooden puppet drama). It blends storytelling, music, and craftsmanship, and has been performed for generations—especially in the southern coastal areas.
🎭 What is Rukada Natya?
“Rukada” means wooden puppet
Puppets are controlled using strings from above
Performances include dialogue, singing, and drumming
Similar in spirit to mask dances from places like Ambalangoda
Traditional Dances
Traditional dances in the southern
(down south) region of Sri Lanka belong mainly to the Low Country dance tradition, known for masks, rituals, and powerful drumming. These dances are deeply connected to healing, protection, and village beliefs.
🥁 Low Country Dance (Pahatharata Natum)
Originates from coastal areas like Galle, Matara, and Ambalangoda
Features fast movements, bent knees, and expressive gestures
Often performed with colorful costumes and masks
Main purpose:
- Ritual healing
- Cultural ceremonies
- Traditional performances