Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
For more information on Hinduism, see
www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/hinduism.
Burghers
The Burghers are descendants of the Portuguese, Dutch and British. Even after independ-
ence, Burghers had a disproportionate influence over political and business life, but when
growing Sinhalese nationalism reduced their role, many Burghers emigrated. Look out for
surnames like Fernando, de Silva and Perera.
Religion
Religion has been the cause of much division in Sri Lanka, but the often-overlooked real-
ity is that Sri Lanka's many religions mix openly. Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims and Christi-
ans visit many of the same pilgrimage sites, a Catholic may pay respect to a Hindu god,
and Sri Lankan Buddhism has Hindu influences and vice versa.
Religious Hubs
Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil, Jaffna
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Kandy
Kechimalai Mosque, Beruwela
Our Lady of Madhu Church, Madhu
Buddhism
Buddhism is the belief system of the Sinhalese and plays a significant role in the country,
spiritually, culturally and politically. Sri Lanka's literature, art and architecture are all
strongly influenced by it. Strictly speaking, Buddhism is not a religion but a practice and a
moral code espoused by the Buddha. Although 'Buddhist' now is a deeply entrenched cul-
tural and ethnic identifier, the Buddha taught meditation to people of various religions, and
emphasised that no conversion was necessary (or even recommended) to benefit from his
teachings, also known as the Dhamma.
Born Prince Siddhartha Gautama in modern-day Nepal around 563 BC, the Buddha
abandoned his throne to seek a way out of suffering. After years of rigorous training, the
