Deities and Demons: Magic and Masks (Part I) by Nandadeva Wijesekera is a fascinating exploration of the spiritual and ritual traditions of Sri Lanka, offering readers a rare glimpse into a world where mythology, healing practices, and performance intersect. Published by M.D. Gunasena in 1987, this scholarly yet accessible work forms part of a two-volume study that examines the rich cultural heritage surrounding deities, demons, and ceremonial masks deeply embedded in Sri Lankan society.
Drawing from extensive research, the book delves into traditional beliefs, including demonology, exorcism rituals, and the symbolic significance of masks used in healing ceremonies and folk performances. It highlights the role of ritual specialists, the cultural meaning of yaksha and deva figures, and the enduring connection between religion, medicine, and art in Sri Lankan life. The work is particularly valuable for its detailed documentation of practices such as tovil ceremonies and mask traditions, which are central to the island’s intangible cultural heritage.
Rich in ethnographic insight, Deities and Demons: Magic and Masks (Part I) serves as both a cultural record and an academic resource, making it ideal for readers interested in anthropology, folklore, religion, and South Asian studies. Whether you are a researcher, collector, or enthusiast of traditional arts and beliefs, this volume provides an authoritative and engaging introduction to Sri Lanka’s mystical and ritualistic traditions.
ISBN: 9552102324
