The Impact of Traditional Rituals and Practices of Sinhala Shanthikarma on Women's Mental and Physical Well-Being

Abstract

Sri Lanka's low country Shanthikarma has become a cultural component that is still existing because of the belief system that has been placed in it even today. Riddiyagaya, also known as 'Rata Yakuma' Shanthikarma, is a particularly distinctive peace ritual prevalent in low country area, such as Galle, Matara, and Hambantota. This is the only Shantikarma performed on devils for women; it is done to motivate childless moms, safeguard pregnant women, and control death births. The purpose of this study was to understand the influence of traditional rituals and practices of low-country shanthikarma on women's mental and physical well-being. The interaction between gender, sexuality, and reproduction in the cultural body cannot be identified without research. However, Riddiyaga Shantikarmaya demonstrates that strong basis in the form of drama, poetry, singing, dance, Wesmuhunu, natural design, etc. The study used the ethnography research methodology with a cultural point of view. Data was gathered using both primary and secondary sources. The primary research methods were observation and in-depth interviews. About 50 key informants including childless women, pregnant moms, villagers who believe in Shantikarma, and Shantikarma artists have been used for the purposive sample. Thematic analysis was used as the data analysis method to further increase the accuracy of the data. The death birth and infertility are biological components although Shanthikarma is only a cultural aspect that included performing arts, white magic, and healing practices. Whether it is debatable or not, the rituals and believable shape of Riddiyagaya Shanthikarma are performing supernatural power. Fundamentally, mental and physical well-being is indirectly created and it also affects the physical body. A woman's mind is at a very weak level during pregnancy and childlessness. Healing the mind and on the other hand, giving knowledge about marriage and sex was also taken place in this.