About Sri Lankan Dance

Dances of Sri Lanka have a rich history spanning two millennia. With various regional and spiritual origins, Sri Lankan dance can be categorized as: Udarata (Kandyan/Up-Country); Pahatharata (Low-Country); Sabaragamuwa; folk; Bharatanatyam. All of these forms have both ritual and stage contexts that have transformed amidst the island's sociopolitical contexts.

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At SandaWaruna Art of Dance, we specialize in the Udarata, Pahatharata, and Sabaragamuwa performance styles through both dancing and drumming.

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Udarata dance has its roots in the Kohomba Kankariya ritual of the central highlands of Sri Lanka. The form is also most recognized at Buddhist temple processions such as the iconic Kandy Perahera. Pahatharata dance originates from the southern coastal lowlands of the island in various healing rituals known as shanthikarma or yak thovil. Pahatharata dance is most recognized with the raksha (devil) and kolam mask traditions of Sri Lanka. Sabaragamuwa originates from the Sabaragamuwa province of Sri Lanka and also has unique shanthikarma origins.