Navandanna

The history of the Navandanna dates back to the ancient kingdoms of Sri Lanka, when skilled artisans enjoyed special standing among the nobility and Buddhist temples. They were entrusted with making reliquaries, sacred images, royal weapons, and farming tools essential to the kingdom’s survival.

During the periods of European colonization and subsequent industrialization, the role of traditional craftspeople underwent profound changes. Mechanization reduced demand for certain manufactured goods, leading many families to reinvent their livelihoods while retaining the collective memory of their technical mastery.

Many families still practice traditional ironworking, bronzework, woodworking, and goldsmithing, although younger generations increasingly seek jobs in trade, urban services, and industry. Traditionally, the craft was learned within the family, passed from father to son in home workshops that brought work and daily family life together.

Social life is shaped by strong family ties, respect for authority figures, and marriages generally arranged within the community. A diet based on rice, vegetable curries, and fish reflects everyday Sinhalese life, and family gatherings mark both solemn occasions and the completion of major commissions.

The vast majority follow Theravada Buddhism, attending local temples and observing ethical precepts in pursuit of merit for future lives. These religious practices shape their worldview, funeral rites, and community celebrations throughout the seasons.

Elements of folk religion remain part of everyday practice, such as offerings to protective deities and rituals to ward off evil influences or bring success in their craft. Faith is deeply tied to preserving harmony in the home and workshop.

The complete Bible has been translated and is widely available in Sinhala, the community’s mother tongue. Audio resources, radio programs, and printed materials are also accessible. The main challenge today is not a lack of translated text, but the need for relationships that bring the Word to families in an understandable and welcoming way.

The strong connection between Sinhalese heritage and Theravada Buddhism creates a significant social barrier, as embracing the Christian faith is often interpreted as abandoning one’s cultural identity and family. In addition, devotion to protective spirits and strict adherence to caste traditions reinforce fears of community retaliation if someone departs from inherited religious customs.

Industrial development puts pressure on small-scale craftspeople, creating financial instability for those who depend entirely on custom orders. There is a great need for support for their livelihoods and access to new markets for their artistic products.

Spiritually, they need a life-changing encounter with the personal God of grace, who can free them from spiritual anxieties and bring reconciliation to the community across historical divisions.