The Kandy Esala Perahera -The Most Historical Cultural procession of the World

The Kandy Esala Perahera is one of the most spectacular and historic Buddhist festivals in Sri Lanka. It is held annually in Kandy, the cultural capital of the country, to honor the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha, which is enshrined at the Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa).

Key Aspects of the Kandy Esala Perahera:

1. History & Significance

• The festival dates back to the 4th century CE, when the Sacred Tooth Relic was brought to Sri Lanka from India.

• It was originally a Hindu ritual linked to the worship of the gods, but after the arrival of the relic, it evolved into a Buddhist festival.

• The perahera (procession) is held to seek blessings for rainfall, prosperity, and peace.

2. Duration & Timing

• It takes place in July or August (Esala month in the Sinhala calendar) and lasts 10 days.

• The final night, called the Randoli Perahera, is the grandest of all.

3. The Procession

The perahera is a grand cultural parade featuring:

• The Maligawa Tusker – an elaborately decorated elephant carrying the golden casket representing the Sacred Tooth Relic.

• Traditional Kandyan dancers performing fire dances, whip dances, and sword dances.

• Drummers playing traditional Sri Lankan drums (Geta Beraya, Dawula, and Thammattama).

• Hundreds of elephants dressed in colorful attire.

• Torchbearers carrying flaming torches to illuminate the night.

4. The Four Devalas (Shrines)

The perahera also includes processions from four Hindu shrines dedicated to:

1. Natha Devala – Guardian deity of Kandy.

2. Vishnu Devala – Protector of Buddhism.

3. Katharagama Devala – God of war and victory.

4. Pattini Devala – Goddess of fertility and health.

Each shrine has its own separate parade with elephants, drummers, and dancers.

5. The Water Cutting Ceremony (Diya Kepeema)

On the last day, a water-cutting ceremony is performed at the Mahaweli River to symbolize the purification of the city and the country.

Why is the Esala Perahera Special?

• It is one of the oldest Buddhist festivals in the world.

• The combination of Buddhist traditions, cultural performances, and Hindu influences makes it unique.

• It is a major tourist attraction, drawing thousands of visitors from around the world.