“Dewa Danaya”: A Conventional Ritual In Kalagediara Estate Embilipitiya

Abstract

The main objective of this paper is to explain the (Dewa Danaya) ritual in Kalagediara estate in Embilipitiya belonging to low country territory of Sri Lanka. The literal meaning of “Dewa Danaya” is alms-giving for gods. The gods in this connection are the regional deities led by Devol, commonly spelled as Devol Deviyo. The ritual is more popular in low country areas such as Galle, Matara, Benthara etc. The community performs Deva Danaya with the first half of the new crop. People expect the best wishing of the God for economy benefitting the community (try giving a good harvest) and thank him. In addition to the first half of their crop, they also offer food, clothes and other enrichments expecting fertility and benevolence. The present study will include both a literature survey with primary and secondary sources and a field survey in the related area. Discussions and interviews with village priests and the local community will also be conducted to obtain the necessary information. The research study will be helpful in restoring the Sri Lankan performing art traditions and bestowing the prolonged religious beliefs in the Sri Lankan community.