Traditions and Culture of Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a tropical island found in the Indian Ocean just southeast of India, popular with tourists due to its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, verdant forests and discount shopping, all within an hour's drive of each other. In an unexpected bonus for the traveller, the relaxed island atmosphere of the country makes relatively light demands when it comes to travel etiquette. The nation has a rich history and fascinating culture which is very unique like it's beautiful places, ancient ruins, weather conditions, etc. Though the Culture of Sri Lanka society is more than 2500 years old, it is really Buddhism that was the most influential civilising force of the country. Therefore, the predominant religion of Sri Lanka is Buddhism. People got ideas about what is right and wrong, beneficial results of good deeds in this life itself and vice versa. People were taught to be sincere, kind, truthful, harmless and to help the downtrodden etc. Buddha’s teachings emphasised equality of man and the idea that man is noble not by birth but by his behaviour and actions. As in many Buddhist countries, there are a number of astonishingly beautiful Buddhist temples open to foreign visitors. What every tourist should keep in mind is that these temples are actually sacred places of worship and devotion in addition to being an attraction. Throughout the past centuries Sri Lanka has been going through a dramatic make over. Companies have taken themselves overseas to developing nations, in an attempt to achieve a positive global presence. Consequently, this method has caused a major ripple effect in countries such as Sri Lanka like never before. In some major cities the influence of western culture is being increasingly felt with the introduction of major fast food brands such as McDonalds, Pizza Hut and Kentucky Fried Chicken as well as the appearance of major clothing brands such as Levi and Bench.

 

 

Religion

The main religions of Sri Lanka are Buddhism and Hinduism which both have large influences on political, cultural, and social life. Generally speaking Buddhists believe people are reincarnated and have several lives. In each they learn lessons and should try to better their conduct in each life until they reach what is known as "Nirvana". Buddhists make five promises:
1. Not to harm or kill any living things.
2. Not to steal or take anything that is not freely given.
3. To control sexual desire.
4. Not to tell lies.
5. Not to drink alcoholic beverages or take drugs.
Hinduism has two important beliefs, "samsara" (reincarnation and that actions in this life determine the status of the soul in the next incarnation) and "dharma" (caste or social class). Hinduism has many deities including Ganesh, Shiva, Vishnu, and Parvati and Kali all of which are aspects of Brahman (the eternal source of everything). Religion has both a direct and indirect impact on business. Most predominant is the shared acceptance of fatalism, i.e. that a higher force is in control. As a result people turn to religion when making decisions.

 

Hierarchy

The influences of Buddhism and Hinduism as well as the caste system have created a culture that operated within a hierarchical system. Sri Lankans are conscious of social order and status. All relationships, whether in family life or at the office, to some extent involve hierarchies. At home the patriarch (the father or oldest male in the household) is considered the leader of the family. In the office, the boss/owner is seen as the source of ultimate responsibility in business. All relationships within these circles are then based on upon people's positions within the hierarchy.

 

Face

Face, which can be described as honour or personal dignity, is extremely important to Sri Lankans. Face can be given or lost in social situations and it is important to avoid the latter. In business, for example, publicly reprimanding or criticising someone would lead to a loss of face for both parties. As a result Sri Lankans are very conscious of protecting their and others' face at all times. This manifests in many ways. For example, many Sri Lankans will not feel comfortable making decisions since this may lead to failure which then leads to loss of face. Similarly, if asked a question to which the answer is "no" many Sri Lankans would prefer not to be so blunt and may give rather vague or uncommitted answers in order to avoid losing face.

 

Gifting

In Sri Lanka gifts are usually given at birthdays and religions holidays. As a rule gifts are not usually lavish or expensive but symbolic. Avoid flowers - they are used in mourning. Only give alcohol if you are sure the recipient drinks. White or black are the colours of funerals and mourning. If the recipient is Muslim avoid pig products, alcohol or any foodstuffs that contain meat (unless "halal"). Hindus should not be given gifts made of leather. Give and receive gifts with two hands. To demonstrate graciousness, some Sri Lankans will touch their right forearm with their left hand while offering the gift with their right hand. Gifts are generally not opened when received. Any gift received should be reciprocated.

 

Here are some general cultural norms :

1. If you attend a house of worship, wandering through, talking loudly and laughing while you click photos from every angle can be quite trying, so you should try to keep the impact of your presence to a minimum. You must remove your shoes before entering. Avoid wearing any type of revealing clothing. Women should not touch a Buddhist monk under any circumstance and should also never try to give anything directly to a monk.

2. There's another little bit of traveller's etiquette for Sri Lanka that you would do well to implement when you travel: don't use your left hand. Eating, giving or receiving with your left hand is considered inappropriate and mildly disgusting.

3. The Sri Lankan people have laboured through years of civil war and there is a great deal of need among them. Poverty is a way of life for many. Tipping is acceptable and ensures not only great service but it will actually make a little difference to their lives. Generously tipping your waiter, guide, porter or driver will be greatly appreciated.

4. Handshakes are the generally acceptable form of greeting though women refrain from physical contact.

5. Dining follows a protocol. Always wait to be told where to be seated. Sri Lankans love coming together for meals, and you are likely to be waiting for a couple of hours before the food comes, as socializing takes place before the meals, not after. Keep elbows off the table and use your right hand to eat. Leaving a small portion of food after you are done indicates you are full.