The event was attended by the Minister of Buddha Sasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, Dr. Hiniduma Sunil Senevi, the Diyawadana Nilame of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic Pradeep Nilanga Dela, the former owner of Nadungamuwa Raja Dr. Harsha Dharmavijaya, and the elephant’s long-time caretaker known as “Kalu Mama,” along with several other distinguished guests.
According to the Department of National Museums, the reconstructed display of Nadungamuwa Raja, which was opened yesterday, will be available for public viewing starting today (March 11).
Nadungamuwa Raja, one of Sri Lanka’s most respected ceremonial elephants, had the honor of carrying the sacred casket in the final Randoli Perahera of the annual Kandy Esala Perahera on 13 occasions. The majestic elephant passed away on March 7, 2022.
Apart from the Kandy Esala Perahera, Nadungamuwa Raja also led many other major religious processions across the island. One of his most remarkable characteristics was his preference to travel long distances on foot, demonstrating extraordinary endurance and devotion to ceremonial duties.
