News
We are Telugu…
View(s):The Sri Lankan gypsies -a branch of the Romani people- have entranced the public with the sinuous cobra dance and with their skill as
The villagers still practise their tradition as soothsayers
Story and pics by Kanchana Kumara Ariyadasa
soothsayers.
According to ‘Wikipedia’ genetic evidence connects the Romani people to the descendants of groups which emigrated from South Asia towards Central Asia during the medieval period.
Sadly these people have always struggled against racial prejudice in our country. They are emphatic that they do not appreciate being referred to as “gypsies”, ahikuntaka”, or “kuravar” – all of which are derogatory terms.
“We are Telugu, please refer to us by this term.”
Komarika-galayaya in Kala Wewa with a population of 300, is home
Changing times:The younger children now attend school
to the only Romany village in Sri Lanka.
The residents of this village have given up the nomadic lifestyle, but they still practise the old crafts like their wandering brethren.
There is still a leader in the coven, and traditions -down to the old system of laws- survive.
K.R. Anavatu is the leader of the village. The village also has a chairman and an advisor.
The Telugu people are said to have come to Sri Lanka from North India many centuries ago.
 K.R. Anavatu leader of the village emphasized his people are Telugu |  Coven leader K. R. Anavatu is a skilled snake charmer |