How are traditional Sri Lankan Poruwa weddings celebrated?

A traditional Sri Lankan Poruwa wedding is kind of a Buddhist Sinhalese ceremony that is centred around a decorated wooden platform, called the “Poruwa”. In this whole ritual, there are a bunch of symbolic actions, like tying the couple’s fingers together with sacred thread, and then pouring water as a sign of their union, you know, like a quiet agreement that becomes real.

The event is usually guided by a master of ceremonies, the Kapumahathmaya. He chants blessings, and at the same time, traditional Kandyan dancers and drummers perform. So it feels very cultural, honouring the family, the ancestors, and the Buddhist customs, yet it doesn’t really involve a formal religious priest.