SANKALANA CULTURAL DANCE ACADEMY

Preserving the Power and Grace of Sri Lanka’s Traditional Classical Dance in Australia

SANKALANA CULTURAL DANCE ACADEMY is dedicated to preserving and teaching the traditional classical dance heritage of Sri Lanka in Australia. Under the guidance of Master Asanka Thilakasiri, we uphold the rich traditions of Udarata (Kandyan), Pahatha Rata (Low Country), and Sabaragamuwa dance forms, together with ceremonial and ritual practices including Wes Mangala, Thewa, Ashtaka recitations, and traditional Poruwa ceremonies. Guided by discipline, cultural integrity, and reverence for lineage, we offer structured dance and drumming classes, ceremonial services, sacred chantings, and professional cultural performances. Our work represents the full spectrum of Sri Lanka’s traditional performing arts — preserved, practiced, and presented with authenticity, dignity, and precision.

නර්තනයක් පමණක් නොව මෙය ශීලාත්මක උරුමයක සංස්කෘතික ගමනකි.

WELCOME TO SANKALANA CULTURAL DANCE ACADEMY

Kandyan Dancers & Sri Lankan Drummers in Melbourne

Sankalana Cultural Dance Academy provides professional Kandyan dancers and traditional Sri Lankan drummers in Melbourne and across Victoria for weddings, cultural events, temple ceremonies, and community celebrations. Led by Master Asanka Thilakasiri, our experienced performers bring authenticity, energy, and ceremonial precision to every event. We specialise in Poruwa ceremonies, Jaya Mangala Gatha chanting, Ashtaka recitations, Wes Mangala traditions, and fully costumed Kandyan dance performances. Whether you require traditional Sri Lankan drummers for a wedding entrance or complete Kandyan dance ensembles for a cultural event, our team delivers performances rooted in tradition and executed with professionalism.

MEET MASTER ASANKA THILAKASIRI

Asanka Thilakasiri is a distinguished Kandyan dancer based in Donnybrook, Victoria, with a lifelong commitment to preserving and sharing the rich traditions of Sri Lankan dance. His journey began at the age of 6 in 1988 when he first embraced the world of dance. Asanka's dedication and passion led him to become part of the Sri Lanka Army Eastern Dancing Crew, where he performed from 2000 to 2005. In 2006, Asanka founded Sankalana Cultural Dance Academy in Melbourne, where he continues to teach, perform, and share the beauty of Kandyan dance with the Australian community. He has performed internationally, including in countries like India and Pakistan, and his training under Guru Rangallepola Somapala has refined his expertise. Today, Asanka is committed to passing on his knowledge to the next generation, ensuring Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage continues to thrive in Australia.

CRAFTING AUTHENTIC SRI LANKAN PORUWA CEREMONIES ACROSS AUSTRALIA

With over 30 years of experience in Sri Lankan cultural performances, Asanka Thilakasiri and the Sankalana Cultural Dancing Academy bring authenticity and elegance to every Poruwa wedding ceremony across Australia. We specialize in organizing complete traditional Poruwa setups, including custom-designed Poruwa structures, professional Sri Lankan dancers and drummers, Nilame costumes, and the sacred Jaya Mangala Gatha to bless your union. From your engagement to your final wedding ritual, our team ensures every moment reflects the richness of Sri Lankan heritage and the beauty of your love story.

OUR CULTURAL SERVICES

ELEGANT PORUWA DESIGN

Create a stunning focal point for your wedding with our handcrafted Sri Lankan Poruwa structures. These elegant platforms bring traditional charm and cultural significance to your special day.

TRADITIONAL PORUWA CEREMONIES

Experience a heartfelt Poruwa ceremony conducted in the true spirit of Sri Lankan customs. Led by knowledgeable officials, we ensure every ritual is performed with grace, meaning, and authenticity.

DRUMMERS & DANCERS FOR EVENTS

Elevate your celebration with dynamic Kandyan drummers and dancers, choreographed and trained under the guidance of Asanka Thilakasiri. Their vibrant performances add rhythm and flair to weddings, cultural events, and community gatherings.

AUTHENTIC NILAME COSTUMES

We provide traditional Nilame costumes for grooms, performers, and cultural presentations. With exquisite details and rich textiles, these outfits reflect royal heritage and timeless style.

JAYA MANGALA GATHA CHANTING

Invite blessings and harmony into your ceremony with the Jaya Mangala Gatha, a sacred Buddhist chant. Asanka offers this service personally, ensuring the verses are performed with spiritual integrity.

KANDYAN DANCE & DRUMMING CLASSES

Learn the art of Kandyan dance and drumming from a true master. Asanka's classes are open to all ages and are rooted in decades of experience, offering students an authentic and enriching cultural education.