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For
twenty seven dancers it was the moment of a lifetime.
After having spent years perfecting their art it was
time for dreams to come true. These dancers of the Palwatta,
Battaramulla “Janakala Kendraya” participated
in the “Paimpath” ceremony at the Bellanwila
Raja Maha Viharaya flanked by loved ones to rejuvenate
an ancient art form.
The Janakala Kendraya was established under the Village
Industries and Self-Employment Development Ministry
and trains students in all three main dance forms in
Sri Lanka. The aim of the organization is to ensure
that cultural arts are imparted to youth at the highest
possible standards. It prides itself on providing competent
skills that will lead to employment.
Dance was initiated in Sri Lanka during the 4th century
B.C for the purpose of expelling natural disasters,
sickness and greet people and land. At the end of Polonnaruwa
period (15th century A.D.), Chola influence came into
Sri Lanka and was adopted in Sri Lanka folk dancing.
However, now it has evolved into an income earner in
the economically challenged modern world and continues
to survive through adaptation. The ‘graduates’
were dressed before undergoing an elaborate process,
which was completed with them performing for the gathering
that included their loved ones. It was a return in time
for a better future.
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By Nissanka Wijerathne
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