The (Dah-ata Wannam) are a cornerstone of the classical Kandyan dance tradition in Sri Lanka. Derived from the Sinhala word varnana , meaning " descriptive praise ," these dances were originally poetic recitations performed in the royal courts. Historical Background
Mastering all 18 is traditionally a prerequisite for a dancer to receive the sacred . The (Dah-ata Wannam) are a cornerstone of the
: Initially, they were only sung in the Kavikara Maduwa (royal dance arena); later, they were adapted into solo dances that mimic the movements and traits of animals and legendary figures. The 18 Classical Wannam : Initially, they were only sung in the
: They were composed during the reign of King Sri Weeraparakrama Narendrasinghe (1707–1739). meaning " descriptive praise
: Legend attributes the poetry to an ancient sage named Ganithalankara , who worked alongside a Buddhist priest from the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Dalada Maligawa).