SSEASR 2015
Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://repository.kln.ac.lk/handle/123456789/8203
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Item Religious Rituals: An Empowering Mechanism for Risk Reduction (A Study with Special Reference to Pulin Utsav)(University of Kelaniya, 2015) Singh, N.The rituals are patterned, repetitive behaviour focused on the super-natural realm and the enactment of belief expressed in myth and doctrine. Regularly performed rituals are called periodic rituals. Non-periodic rituals, in contrast, occur irregularly, at unpredictable times, in response to unscheduled events. This article reveals the role of religious rituals in coping with the sudden events like, flood. In the spirituality of many indigenous traditions, humanity is inextricably linked to nature. Heavy rains and river behaviour are communicated and discussed, dispensing with the need for high-tech warning systems. A worldview that sees water primarily as a source of life, rather than danger, affects the way villagers prepare themselves to mitigate with floods. Therefore, there are some non-periodic rituals which are traditionally performed at the time of flood. One of the best examples is Pulin Utsav, which is celebrated only when the Yamuna water enters in Gyan Gudri, the village of Vrindavan (Uttar Pradesh, India) on the river bank, a phenomenon seen once in several years. Thus, the study shows that religion is a key force behind the way a community or society interacts and cope up with environmental hazard.Item Godna Tradition of Awadh-From Mythology to Modernity(University of Kelaniya, 2015) Singh, N.Godna (body tattooing) is believed to be the adaptation of a primitive form of art in India. The art of Godna is closely related to religion and is considered to be a rite de passage in Non-Dwij castes of Awadhi region. This art comprises permanent ornamentation of the body with tattoos made by Godarins or Maharins. The beliefs say that these are the only ornamentations which remain with them after their death and tattooed god, symbol or name is remain with them as supernatural aid in the time of crisis even after their death. This is popular among women though some of the men in Awadh also have this art on their bodies. This art may provide an insight into a peoples world view. According to the myth and history, Godna is an age old tradition. Female figurines found in Bharahut dated 200 BCE had Godna in their hand, leg and face. The record of human history shows that Godna have served in various functions as a rite of passage, mark of status and rank, symbols of religious and spiritual devotion, decorations for bravery etc. In modern times body tattooing has become a symbol of fashion and religious significance is losing its meaning. This paper would analyse the history of Godna in India, its process, technique, motifs, symbolism, division of labour, incentives of Godarin, palliation and relationship with modern fashion tattoos.