The Sabaragamuwa tradition is unique and differs significantly from the more internationally recognized Kandyan (Up Country) style:
: This style originated in the Ratnapura district and is deeply tied to the rituals of the Saman Devalaya and the Pahan Maduwa (ritual of lights). Sabaragamu Dance Tradition in Sri Lanka - of Repository
: It is inspired by the Kowula (Cuckoo bird). The lyrics often describe the bird's sweet song that delights the ears, its habit of living in dense forest shadows, and its unique behavior of laying eggs in the nests of other birds (crows).
: The primary instrument is the Dawula (a barrel drum played with one stick and one hand), which is slightly larger than the Kandyan version.