The Veddas are an indigenous people of Sri Lanka, known for their unique culture and traditional way of life. They primarily inhabit the forests of the island and have historically relied on hunting, gathering, and fishing for sustenance. The Veddas speak a language that is distinct from the Sinhalese and Tamil languages spoken by the majority of Sri Lankans. Traditionally, the Veddas lived in small, semi-nomadic groups, moving according to the availability of resources. Their social structure is based on kinship, and they have rich oral traditions that include folklore and rituals. Today, many Veddas are facing challenges due to modernization and land encroachment, which threaten their traditional lifestyle.