Sanni Masks represent Sanni Yakkuma, sometimes known as a traditional Sinhalese mystical exorcism ritual. The ritual consists of 18 masks, each depicting a particular illness or ailment affecting humans. These masks are said to hold otherworldly prowess.
It is commonly believed that illnesses were brought on humans by demons and these beliefs and rituals have prehistoric roots in Sri Lanka. According to folklore, the 18 demons who are depicted in the Sanni Yakkuma originated during ancient times
