Wedding Ceremonies

The wedding ceremony commences with the bride arriving in a decorated ferry from across the scenic river; the groom meets her at the entrance pier of the holiday village.

The couple is then led in a procession with traditional drummers and dancers along the long walkway to the garden where the wedding ceremony takes place.

Upon entering the garden the couple is welcomed by the master of the 'Poruwa' ceremonies - the most important part of the wedding. The 'Poruwa' is a raised platform on which the couple stand on for the nuptial rites. It is decorated with strands of Jasmine, Lotus or Gokkola: made of young coconut fronds of a pale yellow hue. Also clay pots (Pun kalas) are placed in front of the dais together with young coconut flowers and oil lamps. The ‘Pun kalas’ are symbols of prosperity, happiness, health and wealth to the new couple.

The wedding ceremony is conducted in accordance with traditional Buddhist rituals which have been observed for centuries. The bride is led to the left side of the 'Poruwa' while the groom is ushered to the right. While the couple stands on the 'Poruwa', wedding hymns (Mangala astaka) are chanted, the purpose being to invoke the blessing of the Deities. Separately a bevy of young girls sing ‘Jayamangala gatha’, at the conclusion of which the couple descend from the ‘Poruwa’ and light the traditional oil lamp. The formal registration takes place in the presence of a Registrar and witnesses.

Later the couple and guests are served with traditional Sri Lankan sweetmeats and in the evening the couple will enjoy a night cruise in a hand pulled ferry under the starry sky. While cruising amidst these serene surroundings a personal butler will serve them a freshly prepared gourmet meal accompanied with wine and champagne.

** ALEXANDRINE PARAKEET psittacula eupatria S. Labu Girawa
51cm.Red patch on shoulder. Male - rose-pink half collar. F.male - no ring.BrR. LC.Common.