Origin and evolution of Wannams.

    Wannam can be described as a classical dance form outside of Shanthikarma. It can be seen in all the three traditions of Kandyan, Low Country & Sabaragamu. Wannam has been created based on various themes. Wannam is created according to different rhythms and different tone series.

The word Wannam is a word that came to Sinhala from the word "Wannm" in the Tamil language. The idea here is to praise. It is clear from this that Wannam was created by combining the South Indian arts, culture & Sinhala rhythms that influenced Sri Lanka during the Wannam era.

In both Kandyan and Sabaragamu traditions, Wannam is based on some living or inanimate object. It is themed around an animal, a God, an event or an abject. But in the low country dance tradition, Wannam was written to gain blessings.

Wannam was first composed for singing. Later, Wannam was used for dance.

Kandyan Wannam was composed in the 18th century. Wannam is an art form inspired by South Indian art & culture. Historical information about Kandyan Wannam can be obtained from the book "Nruththyarathnakaraya" by Mr J.E.Sedaraman. As that book shows, Kandyan Wannam was written by Rammolawaka Adhikaram. There are 18 Kandyan Wannams written in this manner. Hanuma wannama, Gajaga wannama, Thuraga wannama, Sewla wannama, Sinharaja wannama are examples of Wannam in the Kandyan dance tradition.

In the low country dance tradition, Wannam was composed after the Dambadeniya period. Wannam in the Low country dance tradition was composed by a man named "Bharana". There are 32 Wannams in Low country dance tradition.

In the Sabaragamu dance tradition, Wannam is written for entertainment purposes. Information About Sabaragamu Wannam can be obtained from the book "Sabaragamu Drama Art" written by Mr E.A.Delgoda in 1959.