Gara Yakka (Sinhalese Demon of Disease)
Gara Yakka is a prominent demon in Sinhalese folklore, part of the Daha Ata Sanniya (the eighteen maladies) — a group of eighteen diseases believed to be caused by demonic possession. He is portrayed as a fearsome Yaksha (demon) who was once a mortal wrongdoer transformed into a malevolent spirit. Gara Yakka is particularly associated with causing childhood illnesses, fevers, convulsions, and nightmares. According to Sinhalese demonology, he is one of the most feared disease-bringers, capable of inflicting severe suffering on his victims. The traditional exorcism rituals to counter Gara Yakka