THE BALA ORUWA ( The traditional srilankan Power Outrigger Boat) – By Prashanth Sentilkumar
Source : Prashanth Sentilkumar Linkedin
Oruwa – Oruwa is the traditional sinhalese name Given for the fishing sailing vessels used since ancient times. At the Colombo museum you find an ancient wooden timber boat which dates back to the historic time frame work given for King Vijaya’s visit to Sri Lanka. There are many types of Oruwas. This post is written on the Bala Oruwa
The Bala Oruwa –
Oruwa Fishing boats are mainly found within the fishing communities of Negambo.
The Oruwa Boat framework is general composed of strong wood, traditional srilanka fishing vessels are made of Jak,Maara,Wild Mango or teak.
The Bala Oruwa is also known as the Ruwal Oruwa , Bala means (Power ) and Oruwa (canoe /boat). The vessel comprises of a square sail with the top corners that are held in place by two bamboo poles, with a single Outrigger to balance the craft which is always kept windward.
The concept leans towards the designs of a Pacific outrigger, but it has a very distinct feature it has a rectangular mainsail.
Legend has it that a fisherman hung his sarong between two oars and identified that by using this technique the wind drove his vessel faster than the speed that he would accumulate if he paddled and since then fisherman have started using it. Over the course of time the mast grew larger and the bamboo poles longer and an additional rudder was added which the fishermen use to steer the vessel by using the foot.
The entire craft is stitched together and there are no iron bolts or nails used during construction .
The bala–oruwa is considered to be the fastest traditional sailing canoe in the world.
The Bala Oruwa is used for both lagoon fishing mainly to catch shrimps amd prawns and also has you can see in the pictures for fishing in the seas.
Gazing at the cloudy skies engulfing the beautiful coast of Negombo surrounded by the Bala Oruwas gently swaying away in the Negombo sea , with the fast approaching storm, reminds me of a piece of artwork from
Van Gogh.
Business perspective –
I have not come across many companies promoting a tourism proposition with our traditional native boats ,have seen yachts, catamaran, and mini cruise offerings. I have come across only one or two products centered on activities like fishing and sailing, however with the traditional authentic Sri Lankan craftsmanship and a long history ,Oruwa based activities are something that can be taken a look at , the middle east as dhow vessel boat cruises. May be something in the same lines for tour operators and the tourist board to consider, where these vessels could be made with luxury amenities and set a sail with tourists.
