Paththini Dance (Paththini Nateema)
As part of the 211th Annual Esala Maha Festival of the historic Kadudevola Siddha Rankadu Paththini Devalaya, the Paththini Dance performed in connection with the Gammadu Devolmadu Shanthikarma was ceremonially conducted during the early morning hours of August 20.
Following the completion of ritual services accompanied by Hevisi drumming, the Paththini anklet (Salamba) and the sacred divine ornaments enshrined within the main sanctum were ceremonially brought to the dance pavilion. Adorned in the divine form of Goddess Paththini, the Chief Basnayake Nilame, bearing the sacred ornaments, performed the Paththini Dance in rhythm with traditional drumming.
The divine ornaments were placed upon the ceremonial platform, and from this platform to the sacred archway, a ceremonial cloth (Pavada) was laid. Permission was then sought through the chanting of Pavada Avassara Kavi (verses of consent), invoking approval from all gods before proceeding further.
“Uthum Vishnu Deviyange
Theda Anasaka Makiyanne
Awada seta denne
Pawade avasara denne.”
Subsequently, ritual observances were conducted, including the recitation of ritual verses such as Anguru Dumdala Pada and Kahadiya Kothala Pada, along with other devotional offerings. Holding the Paththini anklet in both hands, the performer then engaged in the Theva Narthanaya (ritual dance). While continuing the sacred Paththini Dance in devotion, verses in praise of Goddess Paththini, including the Paththini Sirasapada and Karandu Pada, were recited, invoking blessings and well wishes for all.
“Mevan theda Pattini deviyan sathose
Eran salamba gena yahanata weduwa thene
Devan panduru palamuwama rajuge athine
Aran puda kalō thun dahasak nethine.”
The individual who performs the Paththini Dance while bearing the sacred ornaments and conducting the ritual offerings is traditionally known as the PaththiniHami. This sacred role may only be undertaken by a person belonging to the hereditary lineage, and no other individual is permitted to perform the ritual of bearing the Paththini anklet.
In keeping with these ancient customs and traditions, the Paththini Dance associated with the Gammadu ceremony at the Siddha Rankadu Paththini Devalaya was performed by the Chief Basnayake Nilame, Mr. Kularathne Wijethunga.On this occasion, he ceremonially undertook the Paththini Dance for the 40th time, in accordance with traditional ritual practice.
May the blessings and protection of the Goddess Sath Paththini bring well-being and prosperity to you all!
May the Triple Gem bless you!
Media Unit
Kadudevola Siddha Rankadu Paththini Devalaya
