Transformation of Sinhalese hat and headgear during medieval period

Abstract

From the ancient times, Sri Lankans had their unique way of dressing deeply influenced by their social system and culture. However, during the periods of South Indian occupation and colonial administration, there had been marked variations and witnessed a transformation in traditional costumes with the influence of alien cultures. Three colonial powers, namely Portuguese, Dutch and British, dominated the maritime provinces of the island well over four centuries, leaving behind remnants of their cultures for the Sri Lankan community. One of the most noticeable of them is the dress and more specifically, hats and headgears. In medieval times, hats and headgears had played a vital part in completion of the Sinhalese dress code and during this period, the hat or the headgear has been used to represent ones administrative rank, occupation, social states and caste. The kings had used a variety of crowns and headgears that signified their personal style and tradition, which have been influenced by both Buddhist and Hindu traditions. Colonial influences on hats and headgears have been first absorbed by the royalty and aristocrats, and then subsequently penetrated into commoners. However, one exception is that commoners had to strictly adhere to certain customary rules when wearing them. The purpose of this study is to identify transformation trends of hats and headgears, especially during the colonial period; and to access diverse foreign influences, which encouraged such changes. The allied information has been collected through examination of related artifacts, relevant historic records and visiting ancient temples, historical monument sites and museums.