Kohomba Kankariya is a complex and captivating yathukarma (ritual) performed in honor of the god Kohomba Devian. It is fundamentally conducted to bless the village and the country, seeking to ward off threats such as droughts, misfortunes, and calamities . This shanthikarma (healing ritual) holds significant cultural and spiritual importance in Sri Lanka.
The origin of the Kohomba Kankariya is rooted in a compelling legend. It traces back to King Vijaya, who broke his promises to Kuveni, resulting in her cursing him. This curse is said to have later afflicted King Panduwasdev, causing him to fall seriously ill with a life-threatening ailment (diwi doshaya). Upon learning of the king's plight, Sakra Dev (the king of gods) determined that only Malaya Raja (King Malaya) could provide a cure. King Malaya was successfully brought to Sri Lanka, and after meeting King Panduwasdev, he constructed an elaborate ragamadala (decorated dancing arena) in the royal garden.
To cure the king, Malaya Raja performed Heta pas mangalyaya (auspicious ceremonies), which delighted the king and successfully alleviated his illness. Furthermore, the legend explains the succession of the ritual: while bathing under a kohomba tree in the village of Welihela, Anuradhapura, King Malaya is said to have transformed three princes into yakun (demons/spirit beings) and entrusted them with the ongoing performance of this healing ceremony. These Heta pas ceremonies have been continuously performed since then and are collectively known as the Kohomba Kankariya. This ancient narrative, with slight variations, forms the essential backdrop for the Kankariya festival.
The Kohomba Kankariya shanthikarma is a veritable treasury of Sri Lankan classical art, prominently featuring a wide array of dance sequences from the Kandyan (Udarata) tradition. The ritual incorporates several key artistic components, including dance, instrumental music, and drama. Notable among these are the Āvenduma, Yak Numa, Ūrā Yakkama, Asne, Magul Bera Väyeema (Playing the auspicious drums), and Gabada Kollaya (Looting the storehouse). As the principal shanthikarma of the Kandyan dance tradition, this ceremony is famous across the island and is considered a vital part of the nation's cultural heritage.
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