Kandyan fire-dancer coconut husk torches: kerosene and resin preparation for pandam dances?

Ceremonial torches (Pandam) carried in Kandyan temple processions are crafted using traditional materials. The head consists of dried, de-fibered coconut husks wrapped around an iron frame, packed with shredded cotton rags soaked in unrefined coconut oil mixed with pulverized Dammar resin (Dummala / Shorea). The resin raises the combustion temperature, producing a bright golden flame while stabilizing the wick so oil does not drip onto barefoot dancers. Performers carry iron oil cans (Thel Kula) with long pouring spouts to refuel burning torches along the procession route.