Sri Lankan culture is renowned for its regional diversity and combines traditional and modern elements. Three primary forms of Sri Lankan classical dance exist: The low country dances of the southern plains are known as Pahatha Rata Natum; the Kandyan dances of the Hill Country are known as Uda Rata Natum; and the Sabaragamuwa dances are known as Sabaragamuwa Natum. The most well-known dance, called “Ves,” was inspired by the Kohomba Yakuma or Kohomba Kankariya, an ancient ritual of purification.

Only men performed the propitiatory dance, which was never secular. Low country dances are very ceremonial. This type of dance, known as “Devil Dance,” is used to placate evil spirits that bring on disease. Sabaragamu dances, which are related to the veneration of the locals’ favorite deity, Saman, are frequently performed in Ratnapura. The primary dances in Sabaragamuwa Style number 32.