Sri Lanka, or the former Ceylon, often called the ‘Pearl of the Indian Ocean’ is a small island steeped in history.
Overview
The Sri Lankan culture you see today is a product of thirty thousand years of history. Buddhism was brought to Sri Lanka during the reign of King Devanampiyatissa who ruled Anuradhapura from 247 to 207 B.C.
History
Sri Lanka’s ties with neighbouring India resulted in Hinduism making an appearance, while Islam was introduced through traders who used Sri Lanka as a transit point on the popular trade route which connected many points in Asia. Christianity was spread subsequently by missionaries from colonising nations. These four religions form the basis for today’s society.
Gender Roles
Both male and female genders are treated equally on their right to education, employment, and marriage. However, females are accustomed to having certain privileges as the physically weaker gender such as being offered a seat on public transport and being given a hand with physically demanding work.
Festivals and Celebrations
Many of the festivals and celebrations are done on a religious basis or astrological basis. The main celebration of the year is the ‘Sinhala-Hindu New Year’ which falls on mid-April based on the astrological timetable. Full moon poya days of every month are declared national holidays. During the festival season, many southern coastal hotels in Kalutara the likes of Turyaa Kalutara get occupied, as there are many things to do in this town.
Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life. Google+
