Night life in Ancient Sri Lanka

The Hindu classic Ramayana of sage Valmiki besides beautiful poetry, provides glimpses of contemporary social life in its descriptions. During his arduous search of Sita imprisoned by Ravana, Hanuman reached Lanka. To avoid his detection in daytime, he proceeds after nightfall to get glimpses a Ravana’s capital.

Lanka was a well planned city with broad paved roads and streets. Houses on both side of the road had doors ornamented with gold and studded with bright stones. There were spacious halls and mansions from which music resounded with merry talk and music. There was clapping of hands and footsteps of lovers joining in. String and wind instruments were heard along with merry making and drinking, in several houses.

Rakshasas (inhabitants of the land) were both valorous and pleasure-loving. They were connoisseurs of good food and wines as well. With drinking followed disputing, arguing and jeering. Some were challenging their opponents, some women laughed at the gesticulating drunks.

In some houses, women were applying perfumed unguents to their faces, and wearing ornaments and flowers. The inebriated lovers were reclining on their sweethearts while music was going on.

Through the windows Hanuman could peep at beautiful and love-lorn women as well. There were women with hair and dress disheveled. Some were cooing like birds and young couples putting their arms sound their beloveds.

The description could be true of any modern city of Maharajas of India some decades ago or, a capital of medieval times. Srilanka is known for gold and semiprecious stones over ages and with a powerful king to take care of; people could indulge in epicurean evenings.

With certain reservations, the description reminds a city in South India before arrival of TV channels and radio.