Sri Lankan Tamils Facts for Kids

A person who speaks the Tamil language and comes from the country of Sri Lanka. Sri Lankan Tamils are an ethnic group native to the island nation of Sri Lanka. They are one of the two largest traditional communities on the island, the other being the Sinhalese.

Who Are Sri Lankan Tamils?
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Who Are Sri Lankan Tamils?

Sri Lankan Tamils are a group of people who have lived in Sri Lanka for a very long time. They speak the Tamil language and have a rich culture. Most Sri Lankan Tamils follow the Hindu religion. There are also some Christians among them.

Where Do They Live?

Most Sri Lankan Tamils live in the northern and eastern parts of Sri Lanka. Many also live in the capital city, Colombo. Over time, some Sri Lankan Tamils have moved to other countries. Large communities can be found in places like Canada, the United Kingdom, France, and Germany.

A Look at Their History

The history of Sri Lankan Tamils goes back thousands of years. Ancient Tamil kingdoms existed in Sri Lanka. These kingdoms had strong ties with kingdoms in South India. Over the centuries, they developed their own unique culture and traditions.

Colonial Times

During the time when European powers like the Portuguese, Dutch, and British ruled Sri Lanka, the lives of Tamils changed. The British, who ruled last, brought many Indian Tamils to Sri Lanka to work on tea plantations. These Indian Tamils are a separate group from the native Sri Lankan Tamils.

After Independence

Sri Lanka became independent in 1948. After independence, there were some disagreements between the Sinhalese and Tamil communities. This led to a long and difficult conflict. Today, efforts are being made to build peace and understanding between all groups in Sri Lanka.

Culture and Traditions

Sri Lankan Tamil culture is vibrant and full of traditions. Their culture is deeply influenced by their language, religion, and history.

Language and Literature

The Tamil language is one of the oldest living languages in the world. Sri Lankan Tamils have contributed greatly to Tamil literature, poetry, and music. Their literature often tells stories of their history, faith, and daily life.

Religion and Festivals

Hinduism plays a central role in the lives of many Sri Lankan Tamils. They have many beautiful temples, called kovils. Festivals like Thai Pongal and Deepavali are celebrated with great joy. These festivals involve special prayers, traditional foods, and family gatherings.

Arts and Food

Traditional Tamil music and dance forms are very popular. Bharatanatyam is a classical dance form often performed. Sri Lankan Tamil food is known for its unique flavors. It often uses spices, coconut milk, and fresh seafood. Popular dishes include rice with various curries.

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Distribution of Sri Lankan Tamil people in Sri Lanka by DS Division according 2012 census.
Indian Tamils are classed as a separate ethnic group.
The Koneswaram Hindu Temple in Trincomalee, mentioned in Saiva literature circa 700 CE by Thirugnana Sambanthar
A Hindu gentleman of North Ceylon (1859)
The Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil, one of the main Kovil in Sri Lanka.
A group of American Ceylon Mission missionaries in Jaffna (circa 1890)
Sri Kamadchi Ampal temple in Hamm, Germany, built primarily by Sri Lankan Tamil expatriates
Sri Lankan-Canadian Tamil children in traditional clothes in Canada