Mediaeval Sinhalese Art c24.26

c24.26

The name *kalaha* (*kalaśa*, *kaḷaya*), equivalent to Sanskrit *kalaśa*, is strictly applicable to all *Kalaha* vessels with only one opening, especially those of the *kaḷageḍiya* type; but it is more specially applied to a kind of vase open at both ends, but otherwise resembling a *kaḷageḍiya* with an extended neck (Pl. XXVI., 12), and used for holding sprays of coconut flower on auspicious and ceremonial occasions (weddings, *maṅgalya*, &c.) a pair being placed on the two sides of the doorway, or as lamp stands, especially at festivals.