Foundation laying for a house, Avissawella, Sri Lanka.

A small platform built out of young coconut leaves where offerings to the Gods are made.

A bunch of coconut flowers laid on the site.

Cutting the earth to lay the foundation of a proposed house entails a ceremony. The Gods of the Buddhist Pantheon are appeased, a Pirith chanting is done while the first sod of earth is cut at an auspicious hour. It is a joyful occasion and short eats and drinks are served to the guests.