Preserving and sustaining culture: Traditional clothing in the UNESCO world cultural heritage site Kandy in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Aim: The current study aims to identify dress as an intangible heritage value material cultural object that signifies and expresses subtle cultural values and social relationships.Method: The ethnographic research model has utilized for the study. Ethnography is the art and science used to describe a group of culture. Data were coded for descriptive labels. Then collected data was coded to compare and identify patterns coded patterns of types of activities, events and methodology of wear the thuppottiya. Reliability and validity were achieved by verifying data with other literary sources.Findings: It was identified that there are two types thuppottiya. Thethuppottiya utilized by the Tooth Relic’s lay guardian known as Diyawadana Nilame, and head of the service to the Tooth Relic was known as KariyaKorala. Their dresses were identically similar as a whole outfit; however, differences seem to appear in outer appearance like colour, material, embellishments, and the manner of accessorizing the outfit.Implications/Novel Contribution: The Thuppottiya lies at the core of ethnic identity and has assumed a higher level of significance among consumers and tourists who collect symbolic items. The author concludes by outlining some of the challenges that heritage regimes face in contemporary society and culture and seek potential strategies for preserving, safeguarding its mixed cultural resources.