An Investigative Study of The Rituals and Offerings of the Ilmaha Maṁgalyaya at the Ruhuṇu Mahā Kataragama Dēvālaya
Abstract
Ruhuṇu Mahā Kataragama Dēvālaya is one of the renowned religious places, where the lord Skanda is worshiped in Sri Lanka. Ceremonies and rituals at this location follow long-established traditional customs, among which the annual Ilmaha Maṁgalyaya stands out as a significant ceremonial event. The research problem focused on identifying whether the Ilmaha Maṁgalyaya encompasses any distinctive ritualistic traditions. The primary objective of this research was to examine the significance of the rituals and offerings of the Ilmahā Maṁgalyaya and to explore the priestly lineages associated with them. The study also aimed to identify the distinctive characteristics of the Ilmaha Maṁgalyaya in comparison with similar practices. The conclusion was made by thematic analysis of qualitative data gathered through interviews and direct observations under field studying. Ancestral priests, women involved in the rituals (Ālatti ammāvaru), and relevant officials contributed valuable insights through interviews. The Kataragama Ilmaha Maṁgalyaya is conducted with particular emphasis on the Perahera (procession) ceremony. In keeping with tradition, all rituals are performed by eighteen appointed members of a committee, each entrusted with specific duties in accordance with the indigenous customs. At the commencement of the procession, lamps are lit at the Valli Ammā Dēvalaya to signify its role within the ritual proceedings. In addition, distinctive traditions and customs are observed, such as adherence to the auspicious rituals(kæti nækata), floating the discarded materials of Dēvalaya at Diya Mudun Thota, playing rhythmic beats as the procession returns, and lighting lamps. These practices are unique to this Ilmaha Maṁgalyaya and distinguish it from similar ceremonies. The study revealed that these traditions, which embody both Sinhala and Tamil cultural elements, are uniquely endemic to the Ruhunu Mahā Kataragama Dēvalaya.
