Sri Lankan Buddhist Cultural Centre
Costumes for Kandian Dance
Kandian Dance is a type of traditional dance in Sri Lanka, which traces its origins from the ancient ritual known as Kohomba Kangkariya. The Ves costume along with elaborate costumes and headdresses are the common dance attire for most of the Kandian dancers. The Ves costume consists of a large chest ornament made of small seashells and silver beads for the upper body, and white loose trousers with a belt for the lower body. The arm and shoulder decorations are also made of silver, like the impressive tiara-like headgear with its large ear ornaments. The large metallic headgear with ear ornaments can only be worn by male dancers.