SRI LANKAN CULTURAL SYMBOLS.

Sri Lanka, rich in cultural heritage, boasts a plethora of symbols that reflect its deep-rooted traditions and identity. The national flag, with its lion symbolizing strength, is a prominent emblem. The Bodhi tree, a sacred fig tree, holds cultural significance, while the Sinhalese alphabet and traditional dance forms are vital cultural symbols. Additionally, architectural marvels like Sigiriya rock fortress and religious sites such as the Temple of the Tooth contribute to Sri Lanka's cultural tapestry, showcasing a blend of Buddhism, Hinduism, and other influences.

The national flag.

The flag of Sri Lanka consists of two vertical stripes, one green on the hoist side and the other orange on the fly side. Separating these stripes is a golden-yellow field with the lion symbol holding a sword and a bo leaf in each of its paws. The lion is surrounded by a crimson background. Additionally, there are four bo leaves in the corners of the yellow field. The green stripe represents the country's Muslim minority, the orange symbolizes the Tamils, and the majority Sinhalese are represented by the yellow. The lion with the sword is a symbol of Sinhalese bravery, and the bo leaves represent Buddhism.

The Sinhala alphabet.

The Sinhala alphabet, also known as Sinhalese script, is used to write the Sinhala language, which is the official language of Sri Lanka. It is an abugida script, where each consonant symbol carries an inherent vowel sound, and additional diacritic marks are used to modify this inherent vowel. The script has 54 basic characters, including vowels, consonants, and various combined forms. It is written from left to right and has a distinctive and elegant appearance. The Sinhala alphabet has a rich cultural and historical significance, reflecting the linguistic heritage of Sri Lanka.

Sri Lankan traditional dance.

Sri Lankan traditional dance is a vibrant and diverse form of performing art that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the island. There are several traditional dance forms, each originating from different regions and communities within Sri Lanka. 

Kandyan Dance, Originating from the Kandy region, this dance form is often associated with rituals and ceremonies at the Temple of the Tooth. Dancers wear elaborate costumes, including bejeweled headdresses, and perform intricate movements to the rhythmic beats of drums.

Low Country Dance, Also known as Sabaragamuwa dance, this style comes from the low-country areas of Sri Lanka. It incorporates fluid movements and vibrant costumes, often accompanied by rhythmic drumming. The dance is popular at festivals and cultural events.

Folk Dances, Sri Lanka has a variety of folk dances, each unique to different regions. These dances often celebrate agricultural events, rituals, or social occasions. The Raban dance, for example, features dancers using a circular hand drum called the "Raban."

Vannam, Vannam is a traditional dance form where the dancer narrates a story through symbolic hand gestures, facial expressions, and body movements. Each vannam represents a specific theme, often inspired by nature or mythology.

Traditional Sri Lankan dance is not only a form of artistic expression but also a way of preserving and passing down cultural stories and values from generation to generation. It plays a significant role in festivals, ceremonies, and other cultural events, showcasing the diversity and vibrancy of Sri Lanka's cultural tapestry.

The Temple of the Tooth.

 

The Temple of the Tooth, also known as Sri Dalada Maligawa, is a Buddhist temple located in Kandy, Sri Lanka. It houses a relic believed to be the tooth of Buddha. This sacred tooth relic is a significant object of veneration for Buddhists. The temple complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is an important pilgrimage site and tourist attraction in Sri Lanka. The architecture reflects a mix of Kandyan, Indo-Aryan, and other South Asian influences. Visitors can explore the shrine, the museum, and witness traditional rituals performed at the temple.

Masks. 

In Sri Lanka, masks hold cultural significance and are often used in traditional performances, rituals, and festivals. These masks are intricately crafted and can represent various characters from folklore, mythology, and religious stories. They play a role in traditional dance dramas like "Kolam" and "Sanni Yakuma," adding a vibrant and symbolic element to the performances. The masks can depict deities, demons, animals, and other mythical figures, each with its own meaning and purpose in the cultural context of Sri Lanka.

National dress.

Sri Lanka's national dress is deeply rooted in its cultural heritage. The traditional attire for women is the "Osariya" or "Sari," an elegant, brightly colored garment with intricate patterns. It is often paired with ornate jewelry, such as the "Nalalpata" necklace, symbolizing cultural richness and femininity. Men commonly wear the "Dhotti" or "Sarong" along with a shirt, reflecting a blend of comfort and tradition. These dresses serve as cultural symbols, representing the diversity and vibrancy of Sri Lanka's ethnic and regional identities. The use of vibrant colors and detailed craftsmanship also signifies the country's lively and artistic heritage.

National dish.

Sri Lankan rice and curry, hailed as the nation's culinary pride, features fragrant rice (samba or kakulu types) accompanied by an array of side dishes, collectively known as curries. This flavorful ensemble typically includes three to five curries often one centered on fish or meat and the others on various vegetables. Served alongside are sambol (a distinctive relish), a spice-infused coconut milk gravy or hodda, mallum, and crispy delights like papadams. Found both in home kitchens and prominent restaurant menus, this dish stands as an unwavering staple in Sri Lanka.