A Study of the Current Face of the Sri Lankan Angampora Martial Art (In Association with the Sri Lanka Traditional Indigenous Martial Arts Association in Athurugiriya)

Abstract

The Angampora martial art is a distinctive indigenous martial art with a heritage tracing back to 125,000 years in Sri Lanka. The evolution of this martial art reveals a continuous process of adaptation and transformation, which persists to the present day. The Sri Lanka Traditional Indigenous Martial Arts Association, situated in Athurugiriya, is an institution dedicated to preserving the traditional Sri Lankan martial art, Angampora. The research objective is to investigate the organisation's effectiveness in safeguarding and upholding the practice of Angampora. The research examines contemporary trends in Sri Lankan Angampora martial arts and its adaptation to the modern era. It also seeks to identify the challenges encountered in this process and assess the extent to which the traditional foundations of Angampora have been retained. Furthermore, the research objective is to evaluate the success of the Sri Lanka Traditional Indigenous Martial Arts Association in addressing these aspects and their impact on martial arts' preservation and development in the modern world. Primary data for the study were obtained through interviews conducted with instructors and senior students associated with the Sri Lanka Traditional Indigenous Martial Arts Association Institute, while secondary data consisted of relevant books and research articles. Data analysis was carried out utilising the content analysis method. This institution offers training in the Angampora martial arts to both Sri Lankan nationals and individuals from other countries. Moreover, the institute has adapted its training methodologies to align with contemporary practices and is actively conducting the necessary activities for promoting Angampora martial arts as a sport. In conclusion, the preservation of Angampora martial arts necessitates proper regulation and procedures, ideally overseen by governmental or sports-related institutions. Furthermore, it underscores the importance of promoting Angampora martial arts on the global stage, akin to other internationally recognised martial arts, thus fostering cultural exchange and appreciation.