The reverberating rhythms of traditional low-country percussion filled the riverside esplanade of Kalutara today, September 26, 2026, as the Kalutara Cultural Guild inaugurated its 'Beats of the Southern Coast' music symposium.

Featuring 60 youth musicians and hereditary drummers, the performance highlighted the intricate syncopations of the Ruhunu Yak-Bera drum, complemented by melodic woodwind flourishes from the double-reed Horanewa. Cultural scholars delivered lecture-demonstrations deconstructing ancient rhythmic verses (Vannams) and ritualistic temple compositions, providing emerging musicians with formal performance training while safeguarding intangible indigenous musical heritage for new generations.