The Art of Kandyan Dance

Kandyan dance (Uda Rata Natum) traces its roots to the Kohomba Kankariya, a ritual of the hill country performed to invoke blessings. Over centuries it developed under the patronage of the Kandyan kings and is today performed on stage and in temple processions.

The most celebrated dancers wear the ves costume — a beaded breastplate, silver ornaments and a crowned headdress. Traditionally the ves headdress is worn only after an initiation ceremony, marking the dancer’s mastery.

Kandyan dance is driven by the geta bera, a double-headed drum played with the hands. Dancers perform powerful leaps, spins and intricate footwork set to patterns known as vannam, many of which describe animals and birds.

Low Country dance (Pahatha Rata) of the southern coast is linked to healing and exorcism rituals such as the Sanni Yakuma and Thovil. It features masks and the yak bera drum, played with both hands.

Sabaragamuwa dance, from the region around Sri Pada (Adam’s Peak), is associated with devotion to the god Saman and uses the davula, a drum played with a stick on one side.

Together the three styles share a vocabulary of rhythm and ritual, yet each is shaped by its landscape, deities and communities.

Today Kandyan dance is a national symbol, seen at the Esala Perahera in Kandy, at weddings and state ceremonies, and taught in schools across the country.