​“In every movement, I feel that I am a totally different person…”

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Originating as a ritual to bring blessings and heal ailments, the Kandyan dance is Sri Lanka’s most celebrated classical dance forms.

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Noted for its elaborate costumes, its rhythmic drumming and stylised dance steps - some of them spectacularly acrobatic – it is also a remarkably thoughtful art form.  Each movement is precise, disciplined and meaningful, grounded in myth, stories and nature.

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It also provides a very effective body workout, burning calories and building core body strength and cardiovascular endurance.

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The most famous dance is the Ves, with dancers wearing glittering headdresses that represent the rays of the sun. A linked set of highly professional dances that depict animals and nature is known as the 18 Vannamas, including the Gajaga Vannama (the majestic gait of the elephant) and the Mayura Vannama (the graceful peacock).

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Dancing is done to the beat of the double-headed Geta Bera drum, which sets a clear rhythm.

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The dance lessons conducted at The Flame Tree Estate and Hotel are taught by Daminda, the principal drummer and Thalagoda, the principal dancer, both of whom come from families and castes that have been associated with this art form for centuries.  They can both be seen in prime position at the famous Kandy Perehera every year.

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THE FIRST CLASS
 

A ONE-DAY COURSE IN THE DANCE BASICS, LASTING FOR 3 HOURS, TAUGHT AT THE FLAME TREE ESTATE & HOTEL

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The first lesson begins with the Namaskaraya, a practice done at the start and end of every dance in honour of the Buddha. Dancers touch the earth they dance on, their hands coming together first at the top of their head, then forehead, and chest. The Mandiya follows this - the first dance position- feet out, shoulders and back straight, chin up, arms on hips and knees bent, after which follows the 12 Pa Haramba steps with Drum Beat, each done at a different speed.  A detailed introduction to the different parts of the costume is also included.

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THE SECOND CLASS
 

A TWO-DAY COURSE, LASTING FOR 2 HOURS, OVER 2 DAYS, TAUGHT AT THE FLAME TREE ESTATE & HOTEL

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The second class builds on the first and extends it to include a dance section called the Goda Haramba – 12 separate steps that involve the rhythmic coordination of hands, feet, eyes, head and body. This is followed by the Goda Saramba Steps with Drum Beat, and the Hastha Dolaha, or hand movements.  It concludes by bringing it all together – the Pa Saramba Steps and Hastha Dolaha with Drum Beats.