Maathra A Moveable Feast

Maathra is a rich, multi-faceted tapestry, an auditory and visual feast, woven from local narratives, folk tales, traditional dances, myths and legends, values and beliefs, and segments of the country’s rich history. 

Lyceum International Schools delivered its 13 th edition of “Maathra”, at the BMICH premises, on the 12 th October.

Maathra is a rich, multi-faceted tapestry, an auditory and visual feast, woven from local narratives, folk tales, traditional dances, myths and legends, values and beliefs, and segments of the country’s rich history. It is a composite of the cultural diversity that is Sri Lanka. 

The selection of performances of the latest edition was clearly designed with the above in view. “Sigiri” celebrated the matchless grandeur of the fortress in the sky and the cloud-maidens who adorned it, whilst “Devadasi” introduced to the audience, an ancient temple service tradition with South Indian roots. “Gaadi”, recreated vignettes of the diminished Hulawaly community, once very much part of our culture and “Andare”, the court jester of the Sinhala kings, evoked much laughter. “Hiru Kule” depicted legendary king Ravana at his menacing best and “Tikiri Kumaru”, took the audience back to the youth of warrior king Rajasinghe the 1 st . “Hansa” , revived the brilliant literary tradition of “Sandesa” poetry and “Siri Dalada”, paid homage to the sacred tooth relic. ‘Manikyabhiman” was a tribute to the gem-laden soil of Sabaragamuwa and “Isurumuni”, a special performance by the Lyceum alumni, brought to life the ancient lovers carved in stone. “Nertha Yaathra” traced the evolution of traditional dance forms in Sri Lanka, and its enrichment through other influences.

This production of ‘Maathra” brought together 65 dedicated teachers and 762 students. The event, in its totality, was led by the dynamic duo, Rasika and Nisha Kotalawela, under the guidance of Dr.Mohan Lal Grero and Dr. Mrs Kumari Grero. The beautiful melodies which accompanied each item had been produced by renowned artists, whilst the glittering costumes, inspired by strictly traditional motifs, crafted by leading designers.

Excerpts - Anura Gunasekera
Pix courtesy Lyceum