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The passion of Christ and Duwa’s fishing community united by faith and tradition
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Thousands of devotees and visitors gathered in Duwa to witness the Duwa Passion Play, a centuries-old Christian drama that continues to unite an entire community in a display of faith and tradition.
Widely regarded as one of the world’s most significant Passion Plays, the Duwa production has grown into a major cultural and spiritual event in Sri Lanka. 
The modern form of the play was shaped by Rev. Fr. Marcelline Jayakody, who, during his tenure as Parish Priest in 1939, replaced traditional puppetry with a large-scale live performance featuring more than 250 actors.
Set against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean, Duwa – once accessible only by ferry – transforms annually into a vast open-air stage, with the participation of the entire fishing community, reflecting a tradition passed down through generations.
Veteran director Clement Fernando, who has led the production since 1974, recalled joining the play as a child, highlighting the deep-rooted community involvement that sustains the event.
Chrishen Fernando, who portrays Jesus, said the role has had a profound impact on his spiritual life.
Organisers, including committee leader Romles Coorera, continue to preserve traditional elements by reconstructing the elaborate stage for each performance, ensuring that cultural practices such as the paschal shed and decorative craftsmanship are passed on to future generations.
Pix and text by K.L. Richard Walter Perera
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