Vaping, the use of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes), has sparked much debate globally and in Sri Lanka, where traditional tobacco use has deep cultural roots. As more people in Sri Lanka turn to vaping as an alternative to smoking, different cultural and societal groups have developed varying perceptions of this practice. These perceptions are influenced by a mix of factors, including local customs, religious beliefs, health concerns, and the country’s legal stance on vaping.
Traditional Views on Smoking and Vaping
In Sri Lanka, smoking has a long history. Tobacco use, especially through products like beedi (a local form of cigarette) and cheroots, is ingrained in many parts of society. Historically, smoking was seen as a social activity, often enjoyed by men in rural villages and urban areas alike. It was linked to leisure, relaxation, and sometimes masculinity, which made it a widely accepted practice.
However, with the rise of vaping, a new shift in the perception of smoking-related habits is taking place. In some urban areas, vaping is being seen as a modern, “healthier” alternative to traditional smoking. Some young people view vaping as a cool, trendy activity, often associated with global culture, which is a stark contrast to the long-established local tradition of smoking.
For older generations, vaping remains a relatively unknown and even questionable practice. People in rural areas or from conservative backgrounds may see vaping as an unnecessary foreign import, with skepticism about its safety and health impacts. The idea of inhaling an aerosol, even if marketed as a less harmful alternative to smoking, does not easily fit with the traditional view of tobacco use in Sri Lanka.
Religious and Social Influences
Sri Lanka is a multi-religious society, with Buddhism being the dominant religion, followed by Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity. Each of these religious groups has its own views on tobacco use and by extension, on vaping.
- Buddhism: In Buddhism, mindfulness and health are highly valued, and there is a general emphasis on leading a balanced life. Many Buddhist teachings advise against habits that harm the body, such as smoking. Although vaping is not explicitly addressed in religious texts, Buddhist clergy and some followers may see it as another form of addiction or as a negative behavior that compromises well-being. However, younger Buddhists in more urban areas may be more accepting of vaping, seeing it as a “less harmful” alternative to smoking.
- Hinduism: Like Buddhism, Hinduism promotes the idea of maintaining a pure and healthy body. Smoking and substance use, including vaping, may be viewed negatively in some Hindu communities, especially in rural areas where traditional practices dominate. However, younger Hindu individuals, particularly those influenced by global trends, may adopt vaping more readily, seeing it as a modern practice distinct from traditional smoking.
- Islam: In Islam, the use of tobacco and other substances is prohibited or discouraged because of the potential harm they cause to the body. While Islamic scholars have not widely addressed vaping, many Muslims may view it similarly to smoking, as something harmful to one’s health and thus undesirable. However, as with other religious communities, there may be a generational divide, with younger Muslims in urban areas being more open to vaping as a “less harmful” alternative to smoking.
Urban vs. Rural Divide
There is a noticeable divide between urban and rural perceptions of vaping in Sri Lanka.
- Urban Areas: In cities like Colombo, Kandy, and Galle, vaping is often associated with modernity and youth culture. Young professionals, university students, and those exposed to international trends are more likely to vape. In these areas, vaping is often seen as a stylish, less harmful way to enjoy nicotine or just a recreational activity. Social media has played a huge role in popularizing vaping among young people, and it has become an accepted part of the urban youth lifestyle.
- Rural Areas: In contrast, rural communities in Sri Lanka are generally more conservative and maintain strong ties to traditional practices. People in these areas tend to be more skeptical of new habits like vaping. The older generation, in particular, may view it with suspicion or even disapproval. In these communities, smoking is still seen as the norm, and vaping has not gained significant traction yet. There may also be limited access to vaping products in these regions due to the lack of proper distribution channels.
Legal and Government Influence
The Sri Lankan government has banned the import, sale, and distribution of e-cigarettes since 2016, citing health concerns. This ban reflects a conservative stance toward vaping, with the government prioritizing public health and aligning with global caution about the long-term effects of e-cigarettes. This official policy has led to a somewhat negative perception of vaping in certain parts of society, particularly among those who are law-abiding and view the ban as a signal of the potential dangers associated with vaping.
The ban also limits the ability of the public to access reliable information about vaping, which might contribute to misinformation or fear. This government position has led some people to view vaping with suspicion, as an activity that is officially discouraged. On the other hand, in urban areas where the law may be more loosely enforced, some individuals still choose to vape, despite the legal restrictions.
