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towards the wealth and favor of the gods. Consequently, diseases and misfortunes are

thought to occur due to divine displeasure. To counteract such effects, during house
ceremonies, they hang Puhul (ash gourds) and images of demons, believing these

measures shield the household. Further, practices such as scattering mustard seeds,
seven chili peppers, seven salt cubes into burning coals, spitting on them, and circling

them around the residents' heads before discarding them at a three-way junction are

believed to ward off the evil eye, bad mouths, and bad luck (Seneviratne, 1984).

01.7 Manthra Shanthi Karma
In cases of loneliness, ghost fear, and certain illnesses, a sacred thread is tied around

the neck of the affected individual. It is believed this practice helps cure epidemic

diseases, fever, childhood illnesses, and ailments of pregnant women. Further customs
include giving medicated water to victims to prevent stomach-related diseases,

positioning a sacred machine (Yantra) towards the center of the house to neutralize
planetary dangers, and performing offerings (Dana) to ward off misfortunes. Such

customs are still faintly observed in these communities (Obeyesekere, 1963).

02 Traditional Agriculture in Ranamure Village

02.1 Rice Farming
The primary livelihood of the communities in Ranamure, Meemure, and

Narangamuwa revolves around rice farming within a subsistence agricultural
economy. Though advanced irrigation systems are absent, water is systematically

sourced from rivers through natural channels and small canals, knowledge inherited

from the Anuradhapura hydraulic civilization (Gunawardana, 1971).

In these hilly areas, the terrain is terraced, forming a stepped pattern from the top

downwards for paddy cultivation. Around 150 to 200 acres of paddy fields are
cultivated by upholding age-old traditions where labor and dues are exchanged among

villagers. Cultivation occurs biannually during the Yala and Maha seasons,
emphasizing collective cooperation.

Historically, rice farming also supplied straw for roofing. Even today, evidence of this
practice is visible in the straw temples—bundles of straw stacked on platforms next to

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