Tamil diasporic interventions in Hindu religious activities: A sociological study of post-war Pungudutivu area in Jaffna Peninsula, Sri Lanka

Abstract

The Tamil diaspora is scattered all over the world. Since the end of Sri Lanka’s civil war in 2009, notable changes have been observed in Tamil diaspora activities. One important aspect of these changes is the Tamil diaspora’s increased focus on the religious landscape in their homeland, which constitutes a significant dimension in contemporary Sri Lanka. Many of the temples were damaged due to the war and faced various problems with religious activities. In the post-war period, the influence of the Tamil diaspora on improving the religious engagement of the Pungudutivu area increased. This study aims to examine the Tamil diaspora’s intervention in the Hindu Religious activities in the post-war Pungudutivu area of the Jaffna Peninsula. A qualitative research approach was employed. Fifteen participants were selected using snowball sampling. Primary data were collected through interviews, case studies, and observations. Secondary data sources, including books, research articles, and scholarly journals, were also used. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. The Tamil diaspora from Pungudutivu has formed associations in the name of their village in the countries they have migrated to, and through this, they are providing various social welfare services to their village. The study indicated the Diaspora remittances for religious purposes were important. This study finds that the intervention of the Tamil diaspora in the reconstruction of war-affected native temples is gradually increasing in the Pungudutivu Area. The reconstruction of war-damaged religious infrastructure is also linked to the reconstruction of memories. Most Tamil diaspora individuals are also visiting their homeland to participate in temple festivals and other religious rituals. Religious festivals provide a place for spiritual expression, offering opportunities to meet relatives and friends and renew connections. They also provide diaspora people with an opportunity to spend a few happy days in their homeland. Tamil diaspora contributions to religious matters are related to social values and social identity formations.