Sabaragamu Dance Tradition in Sri Lanka

Abstract

There are three types of traditional dances in Sri Lanka, namely Kandyan Dance, Low country Dance and Sabaragamu Dance. Among these our special attention is paid to "the Sabaragamu Dance Tradition". The main reason for this is that it was not subjected to international attention. Sabaragamu Dance was born in Rattnapura District. This area had been known as the ancient Sabaragamuwa. It is one of the main provinces and it is famous for gems. This area has also been known as "Saparaggrama" in Pali Language since a very long time. Therefore it is known as the Sabaragamu Dance in this area's particular dance system. This dance style is very dainty and peaceful. In other words it is a flexible dance style. The main percussion instrument used in this dance performance is the "Daula". This instrument has been used for communication. It was the most popular, oldest and ancient communication systems in Sri Lanka. There are two significant dance styles for both male and female in this same tradition. One of them is known as "Diggei Natuma" or the dance of god in the god's temple. It was a unique female dance style performed. It cannot be seen by any others because it was a secret dance pattern in ancient god's temple. This dance style had begun with ancient god temples in Sri Lanka. This style had been erformed only by women. It was the specialty in this feature. Besides males have been holding more ritualistic dance forms, in the same tradition too. This dance tradition is based on four fields and it was born through those mentioned below. The first field is a ritual of "Yakum Piduma". It began during the pre-Buddhist period in Sri Lanka. The Second field has been established based on "Jayashrimaha Bodhi" The third one is based on the custom of "Sabaragamu maha saman dewalaya" along with the other healing rituals of Sabaragamu Dance has become a significant performing art. I would like to present a deep overview about these studies.