Exploring the Socio-Cultural Significance and Community Dynamics of the Ankeliya Pattini Ritual Game in Sri Lanka

Abstract

In this paper, the Ankeliya serves as a case study for examining how drumming, dancing, singing, and horn pulling form part of ritual action designed to worship the Goddess Pattini. The purpose of the study is to investigate how the Ankeliya ritual game naturally boosted the concepts of community and entertainment of the villagers. Observations and interviews were carried out to gather primary information. Ankeliya has a competition between two teams, with one team representing Goddess Pattini -Yatipila (Lower side) and the other team representing her husband Palanga – Udupila (Upper side) and they meet at the Ang-pitiya, which should contain a strong tree known as the Ang-gaha. Two opposing teams, the Udupila, and the Yatipila, compete in a tug-of-war to break the opposing team's horn. Narrative analysis was used as a data analysis method. Drumming, dancing, and singing are helpful ways for Ankeliya ritual participants to feel connected and unified. Ankeliya is a ceremony that is designed to promote fertility and it symbolizes sexual intercourse. Overall, the Ankeliya ritual is important for preserving cultural heritage, strengthening community bonds, and celebrating Sri Lanka's rich mythology and artistic traditions.