Exploring Muslim Women's Participation in Music Performance: A Study of the Sri Lankan Muslim Community in Galle Fort

This research explores the role of Muslim women in the performing arts within the Sri Lankan Muslim community, with a particular focus on Galle Fort. It investigates how Muslim women engage in musical performance, examining the elements of performance, religious interpretations, and ideological dimensions. Data were collected and analyzed through thematic analysis, using ethnographic methods such as semi-structured interviews, discussions, and video recordings during fieldwork. This research offers an in-depth examination of the historical, cultural, religious, and political aspects of Sri Lankan Muslim women's involvement in the performing arts. It delves deeply into how these women navigate their musical expression within the framework of their religious and cultural identities. This research attempts to capture the dynamic interplay between tradition and modernity, highlighting the unique challenges and opportunities faced by Muslim female performers in Galle Fort. Through rich, narrative-driven content, the research seeks to explore the vibrant but often overlooked contributions of Muslim women to the arts. This offers a nuanced perspective on their artistic endeavors, revealing the diverse ways in which they interpret and embody their cultural heritage within the realm of musical performance.