Mirissa Mask Carving: Unveiling Sri Lanka's 300-Year-Old Demon Dance Tradition

While Ambalangoda garners fame for masks, Mirissa's lesser-known carving tradition holds its own mystical allure. For twelve generations, local artisans have been:

• Hand-carving 72 distinct mask types for Kolam ritual dances
• Preserving 5 exclusive designs found nowhere else
• Performing ancient "devil dances" (Raksha Natuma) to ward off evil

Mirissa's Five Sacred Mask Designs

1. Narasinghe Raksha
   • Lion-man hybrid used in exorcisms
   • Fierce expression believed to scare demons
2. Panchanari Getaya
   • Five-faced demoness representing female evils
   • Used in fertility rituals
3. Nariatha Getaya
   • Serpent queen mask for poison cures
   • Worn during healing ceremonies
4. Kara Pita Kolama
   • Satirical mask mocking colonial officials
   • Features exaggerated mustache
5. Deva Giri Kolama
   • Mountain spirit mask for harvest blessings
   • Adorned with real peacock feathers

Experience Authentic Mask Culture

Workshop Visits

• Master Carver: Mr. Martin Amarasinghe, Udupila, Mirissa
• Contact: +94 41 851 8623 / +94 72 453 5662
• Viewing Hours: 9AM-5PM (Best 10AM-12PM when carving)

What You'll See:

• Kaduru wood selection (naturally pest-resistant)
• Traditional chiseling techniques
• Natural dye preparation (from tree bark and minerals)

Sacred Dance Performances

• Private shows arranged upon request
• Full ritual lasts 2-3 hours
• Moonlit performances most atmospheric

Mask Meanings & Ritual Uses

Ethical Purchasing Guide

• Authentic masks: $50-300 (takes 2-4 weeks to carve)
• Avoid: "Factory-made" masks sold as handmade
• Best souvenir: Miniature mask keychains ($5-10)

Nearby Cultural Stops

• Polhena Temple (15-min drive - mask dance murals)
• Dondra Lighthouse (30-min drive)
• Weligama Lace Houses (20-min drive)

Book an Immersive Experience

Want to witness a private devil dance ritual? Sri Lanka Tour Help offers:

• Master carver meet-and-greets
• Full-moon dance ceremonies
• Custom mask-carving workshops

Contact us to awaken your inner spirit!