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Laying claim to a proud heritage dating back centuries, Sri Lanka is no extension of neighbouring India by any stretch of the imagination. With a cultural identity of its own this emerald isle known as the "Pearl of the Indian Ocean' is a cultural heartland in the heart of the Indian Ocean that was influenced by the advent of Buddhism, centuries of colonial rule and migrant populations from across Asia and the world at large. The country's documented history stretches back 2000 years with the Mahawamsa serving as the island nation's historic bible of sorts. The introduction of Buddhism to the country in the 3rd century B.C had a significant influence on every aspect of Sri Lankan life as is evident in its architecture and ancient structures which display Buddhist building traits found in neighbouring countries. The Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka which includes the ancient cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa are fine examples of this building heritage and the role Buddhism played among the ruling monarchies of the island.
Art and crafts in the island are also steeped in Buddhist elements as sculptures, paintings and wood/brass work all showcase characters found in the religion's folklore. Cave paintings and temple painting traditions are other strong currents in the Sri Lankan art and crafts scene while frescoes and murals are also found in ancient structures such as the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, the Temple of the Tooth Relic in the hill capital Kandy and the Dambulla Temple. The island is also famous for Batik creations as well as lacework that were introduced to the island by Portuguese colonisers.
Sri Lanka also has a dance tradition of its own known as the Kandyan dance form which originated in the central hill station of the country. The island's music was greatly influenced by Buddhist doctrines, Kandyan drumming traditions and the Portuguese invasion which brought with it Baila, a rhythmic dance music that is still popular with locals to this day.
The country's cuisine is another prominent feature of its culture with rice and curry dishes with an authentic Sri Lankan flavour reigning supreme. Pol Sambol is a local favourite in the spice laden dishes on offer in Sri Lanka in addition to Hoppers, String Hoppers and Kottu Roti while local beverage known as Arrack is revered among tourists for its strong flavour.
Some of the must-experience cultural festivals in the island include the Esala Perahera, Vesak Festival and the Sinhala and Tamil New Year.
Filmmakers on the lookout for cinema production companies in Sri Lanka should look no further than Nkar Filmeye for all their production needs. Revered as one of the pioneer institutions in film production Sri Lanka has to offer, this reputed production outfit provides all services required for shooting a film in the island.
Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry. Google+
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Production Companies in Sri Lanka, Film Production Sri Lanka, Nkar Filmeye, sri lankan culture, festivals in sri lanka, kandyan dancing,
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