Bulbous eyes, pointy tongue and a serpentine headdress complete the look on the popular cobra demon mask in Sri Lanka. Around the island you are bound to see these ‘ghastly’ masks hanging aimlessly on the structures of half built houses and buildings. However, all masks of this nature originated in the town of Ambalangoda, a coastal town in the South of the country. In close proximity to the land of masks is another coastal town of much interest, Bentota. Reside temporarily at AVANI Bentota Resort & Spa and experience a captivating Bentota travel experience as you venture further afield. The intensity of your adventures in the South of Sri Lanka will become exhilarating when you visit Ambalangoda, a city drenched in culture, folklore and devilish dances!
What ensures that a mask is crafted to perfection? The softest wood of the Rukkatana and Diyakanduru trees and also the patience and talent of the craftsmen. The tradition of mask-making in Sri Lanka started in the 1800s. Today, there is a slight decline in the popularity of this tradition among locals. However, for those who want to plunge into Sri Lankan culture, this form of art provides an ideal opening.
Three types of masks, distinctly different in its form and purpose will be presented to you on your trip to Ambalangoda. The Raksha Masks have a horrifyingly hypnotic look. It is said that the earliest residents of Sri Lanka belonged to the ‘Yaksha Gothraya’ and these masks are used when performing Raksha dances. At present, dances of this kind are mainly directed towards tourists. The second type of mask is the Sanni masks, which are used in healing rituals in Sri Lanka. It is believed that rituals of this kind ensure the balance of the mind and body. Lastly, the Kolam masks which are often worn in traditional dramas are exceedingly popular even today. A favourite among many drama-lovers is the quirky couple, Jasaya and Lenchina who are unforgettable in every possible way.
It is impossible to miss the Mask Museum in Ambalangoda. A visit to the museum and a long, slow stroll in the area will give you a somewhat complete knowledge of the tradition of mask-making in Sri Lanka.
Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+
