The history of Sri Lankan masks goes back centuries. It is an old tradition and the art of mask carving has been continued through generations from father to son.

In Sri Lanka’s good old days, people worshipped trees, stones, the Sun, the Moon and many other mythical things leading to strong beliefs in spiritual powers. People believed that there were benevolent and malevolent demons who either give protection or cause sicknesses. Different types of masks with different shapes and sizes were created symbolizing mythical spirits that they believed in. They thought that ritualistic performances wearing these masks and dancing according to different beats of the drums and music gave them healing powers.

Today, these skilled artisans, their families and their skills are rapidly disappearing from society and these masks are becoming artistic decorative items.