Page 317 - Proceedings book

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generations increasingly distance themselves from their cultural heritage.

Consequently, systematic anthropological exploration of the Knuckles region could
help reframe the history of the area.

Moreover, villages like Dandeniya Kumbura and Gala Moka have become abandoned
due to factors such as rural migration and wild animal threats. Nevertheless, during

this exploration, it was possible to collect some historical and folklore evidence
related to these villages.

The collection and recording of anthropological and sociological data remain a
significant weakness in the field of Sri Lankan archaeology. However, this study has

been able to address this gap to some extent by accessing, recording, and analyzing
the unique cultural aspects and historical narratives of the Knuckles region. It is hoped

that a more comprehensive archaeological investigation across the Matale and Kandy

districts will, in the future, lead to the development of a new, more complete historical
record for the area.

Reference

Bandara, C.M. (1998) Chena Cultivation in Sri Lanka. Colombo: Department of
Agriculture.

Bandara, J. (2005) Folk Religion in Sri Lanka: An Anthropological Study. Colombo:
Sarasavi Publishers.

Fernando, P. (2012) Traditional Rites of Passage in Rural Sri Lanka. Kandy:
University of Peradeniya Press.

Gombrich, R. and Obeyesekere, G. (1988) Buddhism Transformed: Religious Change
in Sri Lanka. Princeton: Princeton University Press.

Goonetilleke, R. (2011) Myths and Beliefs of the Knuckles Range Communities.
Colombo: Vijitha Yapa Publications.

Gunawardana, R.A.L.H. (1971) Irrigation and Hydraulic Civilization in Sri Lanka.
Colombo: Department of Cultural Affairs.

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