The term "Wal" (වල) signifies "forest" or "uncultivated land." In this context, it implies stories that are "uncivilized," raw, or not meant for polite society. These are typically short, punchy narratives featuring stock characters:
Translated loosely, Wal Katha means "jungle/frivolous stories," while Wela Katha translates to "paddy field stories." However, these literal definitions only scratch the surface. These are the erotic folktales of the Sinhalese people, traditionally passed down among farmers, laborers, and villagers under the cover of night. Sinhala Wal Katha -amp- Wela Katha