Traditional Sri Lankan Wedding Ceremony

"The Poruwa "- is a decorated platform which is used for the Bride and the Groom to stand upon throughout the traditional ceremony.  According to the ancient traditions, the poruwa is decorated with medicinal herbs, a coconut and a few coins to project prosperity to the couple.  Four coconut flowers upon which 4 oil lamps are placed are kept on the four corners of the poruwa.  The ceremony is conducted by a "Gurunnanse", the Master of Ceremonies.

"The Ceremony"  -The Groom is first escorted to the right side of the Poruwa, and the Bride is escorted t the left. The "Ashtaka" (Stanzas) will be recited when the couple get on to the Poruwa together.  The "Ashtaka" or Stanzas are composed in Sanskrit calling upon the Gods invoke blessings and good wishes to the couple.

Once the couple is on the Poruwa 7 sheaves of "Betel leaves" are given to the coupe to drop on the Poruwa.  this act represents Unity, Friendship and Cooperation.

The little finger of the right hand of the bride and the little finger of the left hand of he Groom are tied together with a blessed thread and water is sprinkled on the two fingers to denote Oneness.  At this stage 4 girls dressed in traditional sarees would chant "jayamangala gatha" which is a song of blessings in health, wealth, and happiness.

Rings are exchanged thereafter
After the ceremony is over, the couple will be led off the Poruwa.

The couple will then light the traditional oil lamp and cut the wedding cake.

The ceremony will take approximately one hour.