Sri Lanka is a melting pot of diverse cultures, traditions, and people. Here are some key aspects of the people and traditions of Sri Lanka:
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Ethnic Diversity:
- Sinhalese: The majority ethnic group, comprising about 75% of the population. They predominantly follow Buddhism and have a rich cultural heritage.
- Tamils: The largest minority group, mainly concentrated in the northern and eastern regions. They are divided into Sri Lankan Tamils and Indian Tamils, with different cultural and linguistic backgrounds.
- Moors: Descendants of Arab traders and local Sri Lankans, practicing Islam and contributing to the island's commerce and culture.
- Burghers: A community with mixed European and Sri Lankan ancestry, known for their unique cuisine, music, and traditions.
- Indigenous Veddahs: The indigenous people of Sri Lanka, living in remote areas such as the interior forests. They have distinct customs and practices.
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Religious Diversity:
- Buddhism: The dominant religion, followed by the majority of Sinhalese. It influences many aspects of life, including art, architecture, and festivals.
- Hinduism: Practiced by the Tamil population, with temples dedicated to various deities and vibrant religious celebrations like Thai Pongal and Deepavali.
- Islam: Followed by the Muslim community, contributing to Sri Lanka's cultural mosaic with mosques, Islamic traditions, and festivals such as Ramadan.
- Christianity: Represented by Catholic and Protestant denominations, especially among the Burgher and Tamil communities, with churches dating back to colonial times.
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Cultural Traditions:
- Festivals: Sri Lanka celebrates a range of cultural and religious festivals, including Vesak (Buddha's birth, enlightenment, and passing), Sinhala and Tamil New Year, Esala Perahera (a grand procession in Kandy), and Deepavali (Festival of Lights).
- Cuisine: Sri Lankan cuisine is flavorful and diverse, with dishes like rice and curry, hoppers, kottu roti, and seafood specialties. Each region has its culinary specialties.
- Traditional Arts: The island is known for traditional arts such as dance (e.g., Kandyan dance, Bharatanatyam), music (including drumming and classical compositions), and crafts like batik, wood carving, and pottery.
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Family and Social Structure:
- Family: Sri Lankan society places importance on family bonds and respect for elders. Extended families often live together or maintain close relationships.
- Social Etiquette: Politeness, hospitality, and modesty are valued in social interactions. Greetings often include clasped hands (traditional "Ayubowan" greeting) or a bow.
- Clothing: Traditional attire includes saris for women and sarongs (called "osariya" for men and "kandyan" style for ceremonial occasions). Western clothing is also common, especially in urban areas.
These elements collectively contribute to the vibrant tapestry of Sri Lankan culture, fostering a sense of unity amid diversity.