The Riri Yaksha and Suniyam Sorcery Legends
The Riri Yaksha (Blood Demon) is one of the most feared demonic figures in Sinhalese folklore, central to the Bali and Tovil exorcism traditions. According to legend, Riri Yaksha was born from the blood of a slain demon, possessing enormous power and an insatiable thirst. The Suniyam demon, associated with sorcery and black magic, is believed to be a Yaksha who once served the god Vishnu but was cursed. Sinhalese folklore describes Suniyam as the chief of all demons governing disease, misfortune, and madness. The Tovil ritual, involving elaborate masks, drumming, and dances, is performed to ex