‘Maathra’: A fresh outlook on Sri Lankan traditional dancing

Friday, 11 October 2013 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

‘Maathra’ will be held for the 6th consecutive year on 12 October at 6 p.m. at the Musaeus College Auditorium, Colombo 7. ‘Maathra’ is the most prominent aesthetic event in the school calendar of all Lyceum International Schools, where students from Lyceum Nugegoda, Kandana, Panadura, Wattala, Ratnapura, Gampaha and Nuwara Eliya perform together on one stage.

Kandyan dance has become most distinctively cultural and is readily associated with the idea of a National Dance. This is not just culturally but it is one of the most beautiful forms of art in Sri Lanka. Earlier this form of art was limited only to the religious aspects, but today it has become a performing art. The Dance, apart from being kept alive, also maintains a purity which gives it its unique quality which in turn will benefit our future generations. Uplifting the culture and heritage of Sri Lanka and nurturing a love for traditions in the young minds is what ‘Maathra’ is all about. ‘Maathra’ is a combination of both cultural dance and drama. As traditional dancing plays a prominent role in the cultural heritage of Sri Lanka, ‘Maathra’ is one example that draws the young generations to this field. ‘Maathra’ enables students to be well versed with our artistic culture as well as talented and dedicated in a variety of streams. As a nation we can be proud that our younger generations show interest in our traditional dances as well as performing it well in cultural shows. This is a sure sign that our heritage will not lose its beauty in the years to come.