The historic Sabaragamuwa Maha Saman Devalaya in Ratnapura, in collaboration with the Ministry of Buddhasasana and Cultural Affairs, unveiled a comprehensive living heritage documentation project today, September 25, 2026.

Dedicated to safeguarding the distinct regional Sabaragamuwa dance tradition (Sabaragamuwa Natum), the archival program utilizes motion-capture video and acoustic recording to document classical rhythms of the Dawula drum and rare ritualistic performances like the Mal Asna dance. Temple custodians emphasized that recording the techniques of veteran hereditary performers guarantees the transmission of sacred artistic practices honoring Deity Saman to future generations of Sri Lankan dancers and cultural researchers.