Theatre of Sri Lanka

Sinhalese language theatre originated from traditional rituals and folk dramas in the 19th century.

Influential dramatist Ediriweera Sarachchandra attributes this to the influence of Theravada Buddhism, which he believes to have "tended more toward solitary contemplation and the attainment of insight than towards congregational practices or participation in community life" [citation needed].

Dramas in Sri Lanka began first with ritualistic performances of early polytheistic religions.

Originating from masked dances that took on the roles of gods and demons in ritualistic practices, the theatre tradition gradually became free of religion and crystallised into an organized form of entertainment.

They were further attacked by the development of a "Protestant" Buddhism, a revival of the religion that stressed strict adherence to its law.