Our Work

On 4th May 2025, Thuryaa took the stage at the prestigious Passion Vista Glamour & Style Awards, held during the Global Business Leadership Forum – 7th Edition at Waters Edge Hotel, Colombo.As the only all-female traditional percussion ensemble in Sri Lanka, our performance brought the spirit of Sri Lankan rhythm to an international stage, captivating a global audience with a powerful fusion of heritage and innovation.We are proud to have also received the Heritage Beatmakers Award for Cultural Innovation, a recognition of our journey in transforming traditional drumming into a platform for empowerment and cultural dialogue. This unforgettable evening was not just an award ceremony — it was a celebration of rhythm, identity, and women's power in art.

#Thuryaa #PassionVista2025 #ThuryaaLive #HeritageBeatmakers #GlobalStage #WomenInDrumming #CulturalInnovation #ThuryaaPerformance #WatersEdgeColombo

Thuryaa was honored to perform at the Annual Staff Retreat of Co-Impact, held at Sentido Heritance Negombo on 24th June 2025. The event brought together international and regional team members from Co-Impact for a day of reflection, connection, and celebration of collaborative efforts in global philanthropy and systems change.

Opening the evening with a vibrant performance, Thuryaa’s all-female drum ensemble delivered a captivating showcase of Sri Lankan traditional rhythms, energizing the space with cultural pride and artistic flair. The performance served as both entertainment and a symbol of empowerment, aligning with Co-Impact’s mission of inclusive and transformative leadership across the world.

Thuryaa proudly performed at the “Celebration of Colours” event, held in celebration of the 60th anniversary (Diamond Jubilee) of the Colombo Young Women’s Hindu Association at Cinnamon Grand Colombo. This vibrant event was a tribute to unity in diversity, showcasing a rich fusion of traditional and contemporary performances.

The Thuryaa ensemble presented a dynamic performance featuring traditional Sri Lankan drumming, complemented by colourful dance choreography and vibrant attire. The performance embodied the spirit of cultural celebration, harmony, and empowerment—honouring the legacy of women’s contribution to the arts and society across six decades.

Thuryaa was honored to perform at the ECU NEXT – Evolve 25 Global Workforce Summit, hosted by Edith Cowan University at the prestigious Shangri-La Colombo in 2024. This international summit brought together global leaders, educators, and professionals to discuss the future of the global workforce and innovation in higher education.

Opening the evening with a dynamic live performance, Thuryaa’s all-female drum ensemble delivered a powerful showcase of Sri Lankan rhythm and artistry. The performance reflected the summit’s core themes of diversity, empowerment, and transformation—bridging tradition with progress and making a bold statement about the role of culture in shaping the future of work.

As part of the 2024 International Vesak Celebration in Leicester, Sithara Dampahalage Don performed with the Thuryaa Women’s Drums Ensemble – UK, presenting a traditional Hevisi drumming sequence to mark this significant Buddhist occasion. The event, held at Gateway College, was a multicultural gathering organized by UK-based Buddhist associations, featuring spiritual observances, cultural performances, and community interaction.

Cultural Contribution
Sithara directed the entire performance—from repertoire selection to musical arrangement—rooted in Sri Lankan temple drumming traditions. Her leadership extended to visual elements, movement coordination, and the ensemble's presentation style, which was designed to honor ritual performance while engaging a broad international audience.

By integrating traditional attire and ceremonial aesthetics into a staged format, the ensemble maintained cultural authenticity while ensuring accessibility in a public, intercultural setting.

Artistic Vision
Sithara’s intention was to present Hevisi drumming not only as performance but as spiritual offering, connecting audiences to the deeper meaning of Sri Lankan ritual arts. Her role as a female percussionist leading an all-female group also served as a statement of representation—challenging gender roles within traditional music practices.

The performance bridged Sri Lankan heritage with the UK’s diverse cultural landscape, affirming that rhythm and ritual can act as powerful tools for cultural diplomacy, unity, and spiritual expression.

Date: Saturday, 12 October 2024
Location: Radisson Blu Hotel, Cardiff, United Kingdom
Performed by: Sithara Dampahalage Don

Event Overview
Sithara Dampahalage Don was invited to open the Ninnaada 2024 Talent Performance Contest Grand Finale, held in Cardiff and organized by All Sri Lankans – UK. The event was a vibrant celebration of Sri Lankan culture and talent in the diaspora. Representing Sri Lanka, Sithara began the evening with a live Thammattam drumming performance, capturing the spirit of our heritage in a dynamic, multicultural setting.

Creative Contribution
The performance featured a specially designed piece drawing on both low-country and Kandyan drumming traditions, created to match the grandeur of the evening and the energy of the international audience. Sithara’s drumming served not only as a traditional performance but as an atmospheric and ceremonial opening, blending intensity, rhythm, and emotional lift.

Beyond the stage, she actively promoted the event across her network to increase visibility for Sri Lankan arts and cultural identity within the UK.

Artistic Intent
Sithara’s approach emphasized rhythm as a living form of storytelling—rooted in folklore, identity, and cultural pride. As a female artist in a male-dominated tradition, she brought a powerful message of representation and redefinition to the performance.

Through a balance of technical rigor and expressive freedom, the piece delivered a cross-cultural narrative that resonated deeply with audiences—proving that traditional drumming, when performed with authenticity and purpose, can inspire, unite, and transcend boundaries.

Date: Sunday, 27th April 2025
Location: Midlands International Buddhist Association, Birmingham, United Kingdom
Facilitator: Sithara Dampahalage Don

Workshop Overview
As part of the 2025 international project "Circle of Light", Sithara Dampahalage Don conducted a Rhythm Workshop for Mindfulness and Relaxation in Birmingham, UK. Hosted at the Midlands International Buddhist Association, this special event introduced participants to the calming and healing power of traditional Sri Lankan drumming in a therapeutic context.

The workshop blended mindfulness practices with structured percussion, using rhythm as a tool for emotional regulation, relaxation, and community connection. Through live drumming and body percussion, participants were guided into a journey of breath, rhythm, and reflection.

Creative and Therapeutic Contribution

• Sithara designed and led the workshop with the following elements:
• Breathing-aligned rhythmic structures for grounding and emotional control
• Body percussion exercises for somatic awareness
• Inclusive drumming sequences to promote non-verbal communication and inner calm

A rhythm-based model for group reflection and collective healing

Artistic and Social Impact
This UK-based session highlighted Sithara’s unique approach to combining Sri Lankan percussion with mindfulness, while also advancing:

• Cultural exchange through traditional rhythms in a multicultural setting
• Gender representation via an all-female percussion initiative
• Emotional accessibility in rhythm-based wellness practices

The Birmingham workshop served as a powerful example of how rhythm can transcend cultural boundaries and become a bridge for healing, connection, and well-being

Date: Sunday, 1 June 2025
Location: Wythenshawe Sports Ground, Manchester, UK

Event Summary

Sithara Dampahalage Don performed a traditional Thammattam act at Manchester Sri Lankan Day 2025, held at the Wythenshawe Sports Ground. The event brought together the Sri Lankan community in the UK to celebrate music, dance, food, and culture in a friendly and festive setting.

Performance Highlight

Sithara’s Thammattam performance added a vibrant rhythmic element to the event. Her energetic drumming engaged the audience and contributed to the joyful atmosphere of the day.

Cultural Significance

Her act showcased an important part of Sri Lanka’s percussion heritage and helped share this tradition with a wider audience in the UK.

Thuryaa brought rhythm and energy to a beautiful wedding celebration held at Mirissa Hills on 5th April 2025. Surrounded by nature and charm, our performance added a memorable cultural touch to this special day.

Thuryaa was honored to perform at the elegant wedding of Sathsara and Buwaneka, held on May 5, 2025, at the Main Ballroom of Shangri-La Colombo. The beautifully arranged celebration featured luxurious décor, including gold Dior chairs, creating a magical setting for the couple’s special day.

Thuryaa’s energetic and soulful performance brought a unique cultural flair to the event, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.

Thuryaa was proud to take the stage at Lia Gold Tele Tharu Reyak 2025, held on March 22 at BMICH. Organized by Swarnavahini, the event celebrated Sri Lanka’s television and entertainment industry with dazzling performances by leading artists. Thuryaa’s powerful drumming performance added a unique rhythm and energy to the star-filled night.

Thuryaa performed at the Commercial Bank event held at Cinnamon Life in March 2025, adding energy and rhythm to a special evening.

We are proud to share that Thuryaa made a powerful impression with a vibrant performance at the CIMA President’s Reception – 2025, marking 60 years of CIMA participants. The prestigious event, organized by AICPA & CIMA, brought together distinguished professionals to celebrate decades of excellence in management accounting.

Thuryaa's dynamic fusion of rhythm and tradition captivated the audience, adding a cultural highlight to this landmark celebration. It was an honor to be a part of this esteemed occasion and to share our artistry with such a distinguished gathering.

As part of Thuryaa’s 10-year journey of using rhythm as a tool for empowerment and healing, we launched "Circle of Light – A Rhythm for Mindfulness", a special initiative focused on emotional wellness and social reintegration. Hosted in collaboration with the Department of Community Based Corrections – Sri Lanka, this program introduced rhythm-based mindfulness practices through drumming workshops aimed at individuals navigating rehabilitation.

We believe in the power of drumming to heal minds and build a better society. Through guided rhythm sessions, participants engaged in emotional reflection, grounding exercises, and collective drumming experiences. This project stands as a testament to Thuryaa’s mission: using Sri Lankan percussion as a force for resilience, cultural pride, and transformative change—not only on stage but within communities that need it most.

• The Cup of Life – Cover (Live) | Thuryaa at Embryonic Wave 2025
• O Mondo Vai (Cover) – Live at Embryonic Wave 2025
• London Thumakda – Dhol Cover (Live) | Thuryaa at Embryonic Wave 2025
• Traditional Drumming x DJ – Live Fusion | Embryonic Wave 2025 | A Sri Lankan First
  
  

  On the evening of our 10th Anniversary Mini Gig – Embryonic Wave, the stage came alive with rhythm, passion, and purpose. This special celebration marked a decade of drumming, storytelling, and sisterhood through Thuryaa’s unique musical journey.

  At the heart of it all was Sithara, the visionary behind Thuryaa, who not only organized and led the event, but also performed with deep emotion and unmatched energy. From concept to execution, Sithara guided the team through every step — from rehearsals to stage — embodying the spirit of leadership and creativity that built Thuryaa from the ground up.

  Our dedicated team practiced tirelessly to bring this show to life, delivering performances that reflected 10 years of hard work, cultural pride, and rhythmic unity.

  One of the highlights of the night was a historic first in Sri Lanka — a live DJ performance fused with percussion music. This bold, genre-blending act pushed the boundaries of rhythm and sound, offering the audience an unforgettable sonic experience that bridged the traditional and the modern.

  The celebration also marked the official opening of Thuryaa Studio, a new creative space dedicated to percussion training, collaboration, and cultural innovation. It was a proud moment for the entire team to unveil this milestone during such a meaningful event.

  Thank you to everyone who celebrated with us — your love and energy made this night truly special.

  
  

Thuryaa was honored to represent Sri Lanka at the International Shivratri Festival 2025, held in Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, India, from February 27 to March 5. This historic festival, celebrated with deep spiritual significance and vibrant cultural expression, welcomed over 200 deities and performers from across India and beyond.

As one of the featured international cultural troupes, Thuryaa brought the powerful rhythms of Sri Lankan percussion to the festival stage, performing alongside artists from Thailand, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Fiji, and Ukraine. It was a proud moment to showcase our island’s rich musical heritage at such a sacred and grand celebration.

Thuryaa was proud to be part of B. Braun Lanka’s Annual Awards Ceremony, held on February 28, 2025, at the elegant Courtyard by Marriott Colombo. The event celebrated the achievements of B. Braun's dedicated team and partners, bringing together professionals from across the healthcare sector.

Thuryaa’s performance added a vibrant cultural touch to the evening, energizing the audience with powerful rhythms and dynamic stage presence. It was an honor to contribute to a night of recognition, excellence, and celebration.

Thuryaa was honored to perform at the grand opening of Amba Yaalu Kandalama in January 2025 — Sri Lanka’s first all-women-managed resort, nestled by the serene Kandalama Lake. The event marked a significant milestone in the local hospitality industry, celebrating women’s leadership and sustainable tourism.

Our performance added a vibrant cultural rhythm to this inspiring occasion, reflecting the spirit of empowerment and innovation that defines Amba Yaalu. It was a privilege to be part of such a meaningful and historic celebration.

Thuryaa proudly performed at the Judges Conference organized by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) at Jetwing Blue, Negombo. The event gathered distinguished members of the judiciary and international guests. Thuryaa’s vibrant performance brought cultural flair and rhythm to the occasion, highlighting the spirit of celebration and unity.

Thuryaa was honored to participate in the 2024 Cultural Exchange Event hosted by the Embassy of Switzerland in Colombo. This vibrant occasion celebrated the artistic and cultural ties between Switzerland and Sri Lanka, featuring a blend of traditional and contemporary performances from both nations. Thuryaa showcased the power and grace of Sri Lankan female percussion, adding rhythm and energy to an evening of cross-cultural connection, harmony, and mutual appreciation.

Thuryaa proudly performed at the Bluesign Summit 2024, held at the elegant Marino Beach Hotel, Colombo, and organized by bluesign technologies ag. This international summit gathered sustainability leaders and innovators from the global textile industry to promote responsible production and environmental stewardship.

Our all-female percussion ensemble brought a powerful cultural rhythm to the event, blending traditional Sri Lankan beats with a contemporary stage presence. It was an inspiring moment where sustainability met culture — and where our drums echoed a shared commitment to positive change.

Thuryaa proudly performed at the Bharat–Sri Lanka Maitri Utsav 2024, a grand celebration of the deep-rooted friendship between India and Sri Lanka. Held at the iconic Independence Square in Colombo, this multi-day cultural festival featured vibrant performances, traditional crafts, culinary showcases, and artistic collaborations from both nations.

Representing the spirit of Sri Lankan rhythm and heritage, Thuryaa’s all-female percussion ensemble took the stage with a dynamic performance that captivated the audience and added a powerful cultural presence to this meaningful event. Our participation symbolized unity through the universal language of music, echoing the festival's message of harmony, respect, and cross-cultural appreciation.

Thuryaa performed at the Velvet Products Lounge 2024, held at the Monarch Imperial. The event featured Velvet’s latest product launches, and Thuryaa’s performance added a unique cultural element to the elegant atmosphere.

Thuryaa performed at the grand opening ceremony of Bodyline Pvt Ltd in 2024, held at the Bodyline Industrial Zone, Horana. The event marked the launch of a new facility by Bodyline, a key apparel manufacturing arm of MAS Holdings. Thuryaa’s performance added a cultural highlight to the celebration, bringing energy and rhythm to this important milestone.

Thuryaa performed at the MAS Future Stars Grand Finale 2024, held at Waters Edge Hotel, Colombo. The event celebrated innovation and excellence within MAS Holdings, recognizing outstanding teams across the organization. Thuryaa's performance added a vibrant cultural element to the occasion, energizing the audience and enhancing the celebratory atmosphere

Thuryaa performed at the Spring Prince & Princess 2024 event, organized by Sirasa TV at Stein Studios. The event celebrated young talent and cultural expression, and Thuryaa's performance added a vibrant and energetic rhythm to the occasion.

Thuryaa performed at the Facia Tele Tharu Rayak 2024, held at the Nelum Pokuna Mahinda Rajapaksa Theatre. This event, organized by Independent Television Network (ITN), featured a lineup of prominent television personalities and artists, celebrating the vibrancy of Sri Lanka’s entertainment industry. Thuryaa's dynamic performance added a unique cultural rhythm to the evening, enhancing the celebratory atmosphere.

Thuryaa joined an exciting night of live music at Magnificent Trio 2024, held at Avenra Garden Hotel. Drawing a lively crowd for an evening of non-stop rhythm and entertainment. Thuryaa opened the night with an energetic percussion act, setting the tone with bold Sri Lankan beats and an electric stage presence that had the audience fully engaged from the start.

Thuryaa performed at Her Market 2024, a special Women’s Day celebration held at Arcade Independence Square. The event highlighted women-led businesses and creatives, offering a vibrant space for local talent and entrepreneurship. Thuryaa’s performance added rhythm and energy to the occasion, celebrating the strength and creativity of women through powerful percussion.

Thuryaa performed at the CIMA President’s Reception 2024, held at the Shangri-La Hotel in Colombo. This prestigious event brought together professionals from the accounting and finance sectors to celebrate excellence and leadership within the industry. Thuryaa’s dynamic performance added a vibrant cultural dimension to the evening, enhancing the celebratory atmosphere.

Thuryaa performed at the UNDP Women’s Day Celebration 2024, held at the National Museum in Colombo. The event featured the exhibition “A Journey of Transformation & Women’s Empowerment”, showcasing stories of resilience and progress. Thuryaa’s performance added a vibrant cultural element to the celebration, enhancing the atmosphere with traditional rhythms

Thuryaa marked its 9th anniversary with a special celebration titled “Cheers to Victory and the Journey That Led Us Here” at the National Art Gallery, Colombo. The event reflected on the ensemble’s powerful journey—from humble beginnings to national and international recognition. Through rhythm, storytelling, and performance, Thuryaa celebrated the achievements of the past nine years while setting the tone for what lies ahead.

Lights, laughter, and rhythm filled the air as Thuryaa took the stage at Diwali Night 2023 at Taj Samudra. Against the backdrop of glowing lamps and festive colors, the ensemble brought a burst of percussion and energy to an evening that celebrated togetherness and tradition. The beats echoed beyond performance — they became part of the celebration itself.

A warm night under the lights at Avenra Gardens turned into an unforgettable experience as Thuryaa took the stage. With deep, resonant rhythms and striking stage presence, the ensemble set the tone for an evening full of celebration, connection, and music. It wasn’t just a performance — it was a moment shared with everyone who felt the beat.

Thuryaa performed at the 67th Convention of the Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI), held at the prestigious BMICH in Colombo. As delegates from across the region gathered to celebrate collaboration and the future of travel, Thuryaa delivered a powerful showcase of Sri Lankan rhythm and culture. The performance added a bold and authentic voice to the convention, creating a memorable cultural experience for all in attendance.

An evening dedicated to innovation and celebration, Unilever’s “Ustore.lk” Night brought together partners and professionals at Hilton Colombo Residences. Thuryaa added a vibrant pulse to the night with a powerful percussion performance that fused tradition with energy. The rhythms set the tone for a night that celebrated progress, partnership, and local creativity.

At the Sri Lanka Institute of Insurance’s 2023 Celebration, Thuryaa delivered a captivating performance that added energy and rhythm to an evening of recognition and reflection. Held in Colombo, the event brought together professionals from the insurance industry to celebrate achievements, and Thuryaa’s dynamic percussion act highlighted the spirit of celebration with cultural flair.

Thuryaa performed at the Trade Club Logo Ceremony 2023, hosted by Commercial Bank at the Hilton Hotel, Colombo. The event marked a new chapter in the bank’s trade initiatives, and Thuryaa’s performance brought a bold and rhythmic presence to the stage—blending tradition with a sense of forward momentum that matched the spirit of the evening.

Milak Nathi Thrilak @ Royal Taprobain 2020 September - Organized by senior Artist/ Writer/Teacher Mr. Upul Shantha Sannasgala

The Women’s Chamber of Industry and Commerce of Sri Lanka (WCIC) recently held a unique ‘Women Leadership Forum’ under the theme ‘Unlocking Her Power’.
WCIC Leadership Forum unlocks the power of women
It was held with the objective of harnessing the economic power of women to gain recognition and to improve their lives while stimulating economic growth. A captive audience of over 150 entrepreneurs and corporate women attended the event featuring experts such as Indira Malwatte, Tusitha Kumarakulasingam, Ramya Weerakoon, Jayomi Lokuliyana, Indrani Fernando, Gayani de Alwis, Sanath Fernando, Anura Ekanayake, Nayana Karunaratne and Prasanna Hettiarachchi.

Saarang, the annual cultural festival of IIT Madras, has the distinction of being the largest entirely student-run non-profit cultural festival in Asia, in addition to its ISO 9001:2000 certification.

World Fest | Saarang

World Fest is one of the largest events at Saarang. It is a confluence of world culture, with well-renowned artists from all over the world showcasing art forms of their respective countries. Previously, we have had artists such as After Robot (Groove Rock band from South Africa), Nini Brothers (Dancer Duo from Denmark), Gothic (Death Metal Band from Romania), Blessing Chimanga (Afrocentric Musical Band from Zimbabwe), Yaara Goldman (DJ from Israel) and Baba Dochia (Electronic Rock Band from Romania) and and many more.

They  believed that the Saarang 2020performance by Thuryaa would be extremely well received by audiences at Saarang and would be an extremely great addition to the World Fest 2020.

Mega Natti at Kullu Dussehra 2019

Kullu- International Kullu Dussehra Festival on October 12, 2019, witnessed a traditional dance “Natti” performed by four thousand women at the Dhalpur’s Rath Maidan. It event was named as “Mega Natti or Manha Natti”. Women from various parts of the district including Manali, Sainj, Anni, Banjar etc participated in the dance.  Not only a large number of locals swarmed the Rath Maidan to witness this majestic scene, but visitors from foreign countries also witnessed and captured it in their cameras.

The International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) – Young Workers Conference, held at the Hilton Colombo. The event brought together transport sector youth representatives from across the globe for dialogue, empowerment, and solidarity. Thuryaa’s participation added a vibrant cultural dimension to the conference, reflecting Sri Lanka’s artistic identity while aligning with ITF’s global mission to empower young workers.

The ensemble performed a powerful set blending traditional Sri Lankan percussion and dance, symbolizing strength, unity, and cultural pride. As an all-female drum group, Thuryaa highlighted the importance of representation and inclusion not just in music, but in all spheres of work and leadership. The performance was met with enthusiastic appreciation, reinforcing the message that art and activism can walk hand in hand in international movements for social justice.

DSI - Sewabhimani 2018 : Flamenco Rhythmic Act “Malaguna” by Thuryaa

In 2019, Thuryaa Women’s Drum Ensemble proudly represented Sri Lanka at the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) Centenary Celebration, held at the Nelum Pokuna Mahinda Rajapaksa Auditorium in Colombo. This global event was part of ILO’s 24-hour live celebration featuring performances from selected member states. Thuryaa was invited to take the stage as a symbol of women’s empowerment in the world of work, using traditional Sri Lankan drumming to convey messages of gender equality, inclusion, and progress.

Thuryaa’s performance blended the rhythmic power of Sri Lankan twin drum “Thammattama” with the melody of “Asadhuwaa Vananna”, creating a dynamic fusion of music, culture, and social commentary. Led by Sithara Dampahalage Don, the ensemble’s performance was recognized by the ILO for its professionalism and impact, representing the role of women in shaping the future of work. As the oldest UN specialized agency, ILO marked its 100th year under the theme of social justice and decent work—and Thuryaa’s contribution stood as a powerful artistic tribute to that mission.

Gamer.LK, an Esports and digital entertainment entity, organised a digital entertainment and technology expo for the second consecutive year - Dialog Play Expo Sri Lanka at the Sri Lanka Exhibition and Convention Centre (SLECC) recently.

Thuryaa team performed in the event opening and the RockFest with Stigmata 

https://gamer.lk/news/phoenix-gaming-crowned-champions-at-gamer-lks-sri-lanka-cyber-games-2018-powered-by-dialog-gaming/

In 2018, Thuryaa was invited to perform at the Plan International Asian Region Research Book Launching Ceremony held in Bangkok, Thailand. The event marked the release of the regional report “Their Time is Now – Time to Act!”, focused on accelerating efforts to end child, early, and forced marriage in Asia. Organized by Plan International Asia Regional Office in collaboration with UNFPA Asia-Pacific, the ceremony brought together regional leaders, activists, and youth advocates committed to advancing gender equality.

Thuryaa participated as the main cultural entertainment partner, representing Sri Lanka with a dynamic traditional drumming performance. As an all-female percussion ensemble, our presence reinforced the event’s core message of empowerment, inclusion, and social change. It was an opportunity to share our cultural heritage while contributing to an international platform focused on the rights and future of girls across Asia.

In 2018, Thuryaa was proud to represent Sri Lanka at the New Taipei City International Drum Arts Festival, held in Taipei, Taiwan, from May 18 to June 10. The festival, organized by the Cultural Ministry of Taiwan and Folk World, brought together leading percussion artists and ensembles from around the world to celebrate the power of rhythm and cultural expression on a global stage.

As an all-female traditional drumming ensemble, Thuryaa delivered performances rooted in Sri Lankan heritage, sharing the rich sounds of low-country and Kandyan rhythms with diverse international audiences. Performing alongside renowned groups such as Taiko Music XERO, HATA, and CHINARY DRUMS, Thuryaa proudly showcased the island’s unique percussion traditions and contributed to a vibrant exchange of musical cultures.

In 2018, Thuryaa had the honour of performing at the prestigious ‘Top 50’ Professional and Career Women Awards, hosted by Women in Management (WIM) in collaboration with the IFC (International Finance Corporation), a member of the World Bank Group. Held in Colombo, this annual event celebrates Sri Lanka’s most impactful women leaders across diverse sectors, recognizing excellence, leadership, and resilience.

Thuryaa delivered a powerful opening performance that combined traditional Sri Lankan percussion with modern stage presence, embodying the spirit of empowerment and celebration. The all-female ensemble’s performance highlighted the value of women in cultural leadership and was a fitting tribute to an evening that honored the achievements of professional women breaking boundaries in Sri Lanka and beyond.

https://www.dailynews.lk/2018/08/09/business/159226/%E2%80%98top-50%E2%80%99-professional-and-career-women-awards-2018

Thuryaa was honored to be invited by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) to perform at the 8th International Dance and Music Festival in India. As Sri Lanka’s first all-female percussion ensemble, Thuryaa represented the country in a cultural tour that included performances at three major venues: Kamani Auditorium in New Delhi, Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) in Bhubaneshwar, and Banaras Hindu University (BHU) in Varanasi. The event was part of ICCR’s cultural diplomacy initiative, showcasing traditional arts from across the globe.

Led by Sithara Dampahalage Don, Thuryaa presented vibrant traditional Sri Lankan drumming sequences that captivated diverse audiences in each city. The tour was a powerful opportunity to bring Sri Lankan rhythmic heritage to international stages and highlighted the strength of female-led performance in a field traditionally dominated by men. The ensemble’s participation was widely appreciated, affirming the group’s role as cultural ambassadors through rhythm, artistry, and national pride.

In October 2018, Thuryaa was invited to perform at the International Leadership Summit organized by the World Peace and Diplomacy Organization (WPDO) in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The summit brought together global leaders, diplomats, and cultural figures to promote peace, leadership, and international cooperation. Representing Sri Lanka, Thuryaa opened the event with a traditional drumming performance rooted in ceremonial Hevisi rhythms, offering a powerful cultural expression aligned with the summit’s mission of global harmony.

Led by Sithara Dampahalage Don, the all-female ensemble delivered a performance that highlighted the role of rhythm in fostering unity and cross-cultural dialogue. The presence of women in a traditionally male-dominated art form was a statement of inclusion and empowerment. Thuryaa’s contribution was recognized as a meaningful bridge between heritage and diplomacy—using percussion to connect people, values, and cultures on an international platform.

In 2017, Thuryaa was invited as the main cultural act at the International Girls’ Day National Summit, organized by the Foundation for Innovative Social Development (FISD) at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH), Colombo. Themed “Girls Change the World”, the summit highlighted the power of young women and girls in shaping inclusive, equitable societies.

Thuryaa’s performance celebrated this vision through a vibrant display of traditional Sri Lankan percussion, led by an all-female ensemble. With dynamic rhythms and empowering presence, the performance echoed the core message of the event—amplifying the voice and potential of girls across Sri Lanka. It was a proud moment for Thuryaa to contribute artistically to a cause that aligns closely with our mission: promoting women’s leadership through rhythm and cultural expression.

In March 2017, Thuryaa was honoured to be selected as the lead entertainment partner by the SAARC Cultural Centre for the official International Women’s Day celebration held at the Lionel Wendt Art Centre, Colombo, Sri Lanka.

As Sri Lanka’s first all-female traditional drumming ensemble, Thuryaa presented a dynamic and inspiring performance that celebrated the strength, creativity, and cultural identity of women through rhythm and movement. The ensemble’s appearance was a highlight of the evening, receiving widespread appreciation from local and international guests.

This event marked an important milestone in Thuryaa’s journey, reflecting the ensemble’s growing role in cultural diplomacy and women’s empowerment across South Asia.

In December 2017, Thuryaa was invited to perform at the renowned River Brahmaputra Art Festival in Guwahati, Assam, India, under the esteemed patronage of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR). This vibrant international festival—also known as The India Show—brought together over a hundred artists and performers from across South Asia to celebrate the richness of regional art, culture, and music.

Representing Sri Lanka on this prestigious platform, Thuryaa delivered a powerful and culturally immersive performance, blending traditional Sri Lankan percussion with dynamic stage artistry. As a pioneering all-female ensemble, Thuryaa’s presence resonated far beyond the rhythm—it stood as a statement of gender inclusivity, cultural diplomacy, and regional collaboration.

The performance, directed and led by Sithara Dampahalage Don, was not only well-received but also highlighted the evolving identity of South Asian art through the lens of tradition and innovation. It marked another proud milestone in Thuryaa’s journey, strengthening cross-border cultural bonds and reinforcing Sri Lanka’s artistic voice on the international stage.

In November 2015, Thuryaa, Sri Lanka’s first all-female traditional drumming ensemble, proudly embarked on its first international tour—a defining moment in the group’s history and a breakthrough for Sri Lankan performing arts. The destination was Punjab, India, where Thuryaa represented Sri Lanka at the prestigious 18th Global Female Folk Dance Competition & Carnival, organized by the Charu Castle Foundation (CCF) in partnership with Lovely Professional University.

This global event gathered female folk artists from over 30 countries, celebrating music, dance, and cultural exchange on an international stage. Amid this vibrant and competitive atmosphere, Thuryaa emerged as a standout force, winning First Place in both the Best Dance and Best Music categories.

Led by visionary artist and founder Sithara Dampahalage Don, the ensemble captivated audiences and judges with a powerful display of Sri Lankan rhythmic traditions—seamlessly blending Kandyan, Low Country, and Sabaragamuwa drumming styles with dynamic choreography and commanding stage presence.

This historic achievement marked the beginning of Thuryaa’s international journey and was a pivotal milestone in Sithara’s mission to elevate and globalize Sri Lankan percussion art, especially by empowering women in a domain traditionally closed to them.

Since this landmark debut, Thuryaa has continued to inspire audiences around the world with its message of unity through rhythm, captured in the group’s enduring theme:

“Share the Rhythm of Humanity.”

As the ensemble’s founding director and creative lead, Sithara Dampahalage Don continues to push boundaries—blending cultural preservation with contemporary relevance. This first international accolade not only introduced Sri Lankan female percussion to the world but also laid the groundwork for Sithara's growing impact as a cultural ambassador on the global stage.

Thuryaa ; The First ever Female Percussion Band In Sri Lanka has taken their first step as undergraduates of the University of Visual and Performing Arts, Colombo