Pattini, is considered a guardian deity of Sri Lanka in Sri Lankan Buddhism and Sinhalese folklore. She is also worshipped by Sri Lankan Tamil Hindus by the name of Kannaki Amman. She is considered the patron goddess of fertility and health, particularly protection against smallpox, which is referred to as deviyange ledé ('the divine affliction') in the Sinhala language.

History

Goddess Pattini is the deification of Kannaki, who is the central character of the Tamil epic the Cilappatikaram of Ilango Adigal, written in South India after the 2nd century. After a short time, it was introduced into Sri Lanka and absorbed earlier deities such as Kiri Amma ('milk mother'). Historians attribute the introduction of goddess Pattini to the island to Gajabahu I, a Sinhalese king who ruled Sri Lanka from 113-135. As per some historians, the Cilappatikaram mentions Gajabahu's presence at the consecration of a temple to Kannagi (identified as Pattini in this case) by the Chera king Cenkuttuvan.

Rituals

Pattini is honoured in annual fertility rites such as

Nursing mothers' alms-giving

Sinhalese people believe that diseases like chickenpox and measles are punishments by God for frailty. In such events as the goddess of healing, they pray to Pattini Devi. When a family member is infected, they hold Dānas (alms-givings) for her, called Kiri-ammāwarungè dānaya (Nursing mothers' alms-giving). Sri Lankan Sinhalese first invite to 7 or more than that ( 7 multiples ) good women by their behavior.Next, they made Kiriya ( A dish likewise Dodol made from pure coconut milk , jaggery and treacle and adding plums and Kaju ) , Kavum ( Sri Lankan Oil Cake ) , Milk Aluwa , Milk Rice.Especially , All these dishes are made from milk , a symbol of luck.They also add plantains too.At the alms giving day , they offer dishes for Lord Buddha and Goddess Pattini. After they offer the dishes for the invited good womans.Next, they read the ancient script of Pattini Halla and Some chants of goddess pattini.

Pattini temples in Sri Lanka