When it comes to the ‘Mul Aduma’, P.V.S Jayaratne is a name that everyone knows. So who better to know the true history of this costume than them?

Tell us a little about P.V.S Jayaratne.

Well, we are a fifth generation business. That means that this business has been with us from generation to generation. We have around 400 costumes, some of which are over fifty years old.

What’s the history behind the ‘Mul Aduma’?

We believe that the influence for this attire was given to us by India during the Nanayakkar dynasty. But when it comes to the design and the dressing, it all originated in Sri Lanka. Back then; this attire was worn by ministers according to rank and status. The ‘Mul Aduma’ is mostly worn at weddings and Peraharas.

What do the different colours symbolize?

This attire can be found in different colours such as maroon, blue, purple, ivory, red, white and green. These colours have been there since its origin. But the meaning behind the different colours are only given to a selected few.

How do grooms select what suits them best?

Back then, grooms selected the attire depending on their caste, status and ranking in society. With the caste system no longer in place, today, grooms select by looking at what matches their skin colour, the fashion and whether it complements the bride.

How many parts are there in this costume?

There are 14 parts to this attire. In our opinion we believe that it is the costume with the most amount of parts in the world. The whole costume consists of many parts, the reli kalisama, the viluda papu patiya, the sudu thippotiya, pachcha wadama, somana, kavaniya, the velvet jacket, thoppiya with the mal gaha, the knife, the shoes, peras mudda and the necklace with the medal.

Has the ‘Mul Aduma’ changed over time?

It’s pretty different. Today, people has turned this attire into a business without even knowing the history or reason behind this. They don’t know how to dress it properly. People just do it in different styles and make different designs that is not a part of the original ‘mul aduma’.

What advice do you have for groom’s looking to wear the ‘Mul Aduma’?

The only advice we can give is that when you chose to wear the attire, know the history behind it and wear it the right way. If you make changes to the design of it, it’s a totally different outfit and not a ‘mul aduma’ anymore.

Interviewed by Panchali Illankoon