Sifting hidden truths from hoary old traditions

In a world where modernity often tramples tradition, author and researcher Asiff Hussein is making a strong case for why Sri Lanka must revisit its ancient practices, legends, and medical knowledge.

- BY IFHAM NIZAM

Hussein, whose latest book, The Zeylonese Treasure Book of Myth, Mystery and Mystique, explores forgotten layers of history, folklore, and science, argues that many traditions are not merely quaint relics but repositories of wisdom waiting to be rediscovered.

“There is a reason for traditions to evolve and take root in any given community. Else they wouldn't be there in the first place,” Hussein told The Island. “Many of these have stood the test of time and to discard them would be to disregard valuable knowledge passed down to us through countless generations.”

Cravings and Science in Tradition

Hussein illustrates this point with the concept of dola-duka, or pregnancy cravings. “The Sinhala word dola comes from the Sanskrit dvihr-da, meaning ‘two hearts’ — the desire of both the mother and the unborn child. Such cravings are often the body’s way of responding to deficiencies,” he explained. A woman craving sour foods may be seeking vitamin C, while a desire for meat may reflect her body’s need for protein. Even a craving for sprats can be interpreted as the body’s way of replenishing calcium.

“These practices are not superstition. They show that our ancestors observed and internalised biological truths long before the arrival of modern medicine,” Hussein said.

Myths, Legends and the Roots of History

For Hussein, Sri Lanka’s ancient chronicles such as the Mahavamsa and the Yalppana Vaipava Malai deserve deeper respect. “One simply cannot dismiss these records as myths just because they don’t tally with our current understanding,” he stressed.

The Mahavamsa refers to peoples such as the Yakkhas, Nagas and Rakshasas. Hussein believes these may have been early inhabitants of the island whose languages and cultures left indelible marks on Sinhala. He points out that many common Sinhala words such as kola (leaf), linda (well),