Page 316 - Proceedings book

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and treating illnesses locally. As a result, it is possible to trace generations of nursing

and healing traditions within the village. Currently, there are experts known locally as
bone doctors, snake doctors, eye doctors, and general practitioners, each specializing

in particular areas. Additionally, certain groups are noted for curing diseases through
ritual practices.

The survey findings regarding the current state of the 25 families’ houses show that,
traditionally, homes in Ranamure were simple structures comprising a living room,

kitchen, and courtyard. The walls were constructed using clay and wooden sticks, and

the roofs were thatched with straw and grasses. Today, traditional clay-walled houses
are rare, and the style and structure of homes have diversified, often depending on the

number of rooms.

Many traditional rituals and beliefs continue to be preserved in Sri Lanka's rural

villages. Ranamure is no exception, with many rituals that have been handed down
from ancient times and are still practiced today. The research revealed that these

rituals largely relate to religious beliefs concerning gods and demons. Importantly,
interviews with the villagers confirmed that there is still a deep reservoir of

knowledge regarding traditional beliefs and practices within the community.

Conclusion

The unique geological and biological environment of the Knuckles Range appears to

have given rise to a distinctive socio-cultural heritage associated with the region.
Ranamure village, situated on the north-eastern slope of the Knuckles Range in the

Dumbara Valley, served as the primary site for the anthropological collection and

documentation of traditional knowledge.

Although sociological studies of the Knuckles Range exist, extensive anthropological

and archaeological research in areas of the Matale District is lacking. Therefore, this
research aimed to contribute an anthropological commentary and evaluation of a

largely unexplored area, thereby laying the foundation for broader future research.

The findings indicate that Ranamure and similar villages, which preserve Sri Lankan

traditions in terms of anthropology and sociology, are under threat of disappearing. It
is already evident that while older generations maintain traditional practices, younger

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