Breaking coconuts, Aluthnuwara Dewale, Mawanella, Sri Lanka

Breaking of coconuts

Pieces of broken coconuts surrounding the stone where the coconuts are smashed

Breaking of coconuts to fulfil a vow to Lord Ganesha is practiced extensively in the Hindu Dewales of Sri Lanka. There are various interpretations given to this act. I have heard it said that it is an act symbolizing the breaking of the hard outer ego to taste the white sweet kernel of the deity resident in each human being. I took these pictures and video at the Aluthnuwara Dewale in Mawanella, Sri Lanka.
Video:-

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FAceEbYQ_y0

Aluthnuwara Dewale, Mawanella, Sri Lanka.

The sacred tree

A coconut leaf receptacle to offer flowers at the site

Aluthnuwara Dewale, Mawanella, Sri Lanka.

Lamp offerings

Cock-bird donated to Dewale

Aluthnuwara Dewale, Mawanella, Sri Lanka.

Dewale premises

Click on web-link below:-
http://www.visitsabaragamuwa.lk/doc_view.php?page=6

Aluthnuwara Dewala, Mawanella, Sri Lanka.

Entrance to the Aluthnuwara Dewala.

Inside the Dewala premises.

Aluthnuwara Dewala, Mawanella, Sri Lanka.

Temple elephant

'Pooja vattiya'

Scenes at the entrance to 'Aluthnuwara Dewala', Mawanalla.

Resting Place near the Batticaloa Lagoon, Sri Lanka.

A place to sit and watch the sunset and getting a gentle breeze, this indeed is Paradise.