City as a performative place: asala perahara and the spatial dynamics of Kandy

Abstract

Traditional cities are dynamically re-enacted through regular performances and rituals. Kandy city is described within this per formative phenomenon in order to understand the dynamics of the place. Phenomenology is the research methodology . A theoretical framework, synthesizing key concepts of place, sense of place, dwelling, Chora, becoming, non-representational landscape theory and performance theory is developed and used to examine performance of the Asala perahara ritual process in Kandy city. Case study findings illustrate that, Asala perahara marks geometrical patterns, in the landscape connecting different locations, rituals, people and the invisible dimensions of the place. Unfolded place within this cultural drama, experiencing natural –cultural setting and body performances is a dynamic process. Spiritual experience is significant in these ritual performances and built forms , inseparable from people and the place. Analysing of Asala perahara explains that city is understood as an inside enclosed by three mountains, reflected in the city form and architecture of Kandy. This reveals important guide lines for city conservation and developments.