Hi Mia. Well, this was the first time I came accross a ceremony like this one. And the girls' parents were happy to have me photograph the ceremony.
In Sri Lanka most communities - especially hindus, muslims and buddhists tend to celebrate womanhood, each with their own religious observances and rituals. Some ceremonies more elaborate, and some, very private and closed.
The common thread I found however is the importance each community places on the role of the woman and her gift of being able to bear life.
Yes, it's only womanhood which is celebrated in this custom.
I guess there's more to all this, but this is what I know and can tell you for now. Hope it helps.
Anonymous said…
Thanks for the info. I am from SL though not living there anymore.
It occured to me while reading the info you provided, it is in fact the coming of age ceremony. But I have not seen a hindu one before. Thanks.
Anonymous said…
Nice fill someone in on and this post helped me alot in my college assignement. Gratefulness you as your information.
Comments
Is it a common practise?
Is it customary for both male & female adolescents or is it only for females?
Would love to learn more if you can elaborate. Please?
In Sri Lanka most communities - especially hindus, muslims and buddhists tend to celebrate womanhood, each with their own religious observances and rituals. Some ceremonies more elaborate, and some, very private and closed.
The common thread I found however is the importance each community places on the role of the woman and her gift of being able to bear life.
Yes, it's only womanhood which is celebrated in this custom.
I guess there's more to all this, but this is what I know and can tell you for now. Hope it helps.
It occured to me while reading the info you provided, it is in fact the coming of age ceremony.
But I have not seen a hindu one before.
Thanks.