Sri Lanka’s Vibrant Festivals
Festivals are an integral part of the ethnicity of a region. Each country of the world has its individual system of culture and traditions. Sri Lanka also has its idiosyncratic culture that makes it different from the rest of the world. If you are planning a trip to Sri Lanka and haven’t made up your mind to experience its vibrant festivals, then you are missing out on a big part. It is highly recommended for those visiting Sri Lanka to understand its fascinating culture through its vibrant festivals. With such festivals they preserve their traditions and the much respected culture. The most authentic essence of Sri Lanka can be experienced through a cultural stay with its lively festivals.
Sri Lankan festivals are full of smiles, people here are always smiling which adds more charm to the festivities. The locals have an extraordinary lifestyle full of art, entertainment and music. All three aspects are clearly exhibited in their festivals. This is what travelers love too. These festivals are packed with bright and colorful traditions. However, one significant facet apart from these exciting features is that most of the festivals in Sri Lanka are closely related to the lunar calendar. There are four main religions on the island: Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity, and Islam, all of which have different festivals to celebrate their culture and traditions. Most of these festivals show some relation to the lunar calendar which is both significant and intriguing. Some of the main festivals that should not be missed to understand the culture more closely are:
Poson: The festival is celebrated during the month of June. This is the main festival for the Buddhist population as they celebrate it in commemoration of the introduction of Buddhism to the Sri Lankans. Large processions with great zeal and fervor are carried out throughout the island during this event.
Duruthu: Yet another festival to celebrate Buddhism, Duruthu is celebrated in the month of January. The festival is celebrated with grand processions to mark the Buddha’s first visit to Sri Lanka. The processions include exciting programs with drummers, dancers and elephants. The festivities last for three nights and each night there is a new procession with new activities and celebrations.
Esala: It is celebrated during the month of July and August. These two months are the most significant months on the island as the biggest and most vibrant festivals in Sri Lanka take place during this time. The August Moon Festival, as its name suggests, is celebrated in August and is considered the most special festival on the island. Esala is celebrated in devotion to the warrior god Kataragama. The festival takes place for two weeks with large processions each day. The best part of the festival is the fire walking ceremony that is performed in honor of the warrior god.