Sinhala Nationalism is a political and cultural movement that emphasizes the identity and rights of the Sinhalese people in Sri Lanka. It emerged in the early 20th century as a response to colonial rule and aimed to promote the Sinhalese language, culture, and religion, primarily Buddhism. The movement has played a significant role in shaping Sri Lanka's political landscape, particularly during the post-independence era. It has been associated with various policies that prioritize Sinhalese interests, sometimes leading to tensions with minority communities, particularly the Tamils, and contributing to the island's complex ethnic dynamics.