Preliminary discussions on organizing the 63rd Annual Walukarama Esala Maha Perahera were held yesterday (July 2) at the Presidential Secretariat under the patronage of Presidential Secretary Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, with a focus on ensuring full government coordination for the religious and cultural event.
The annual Esala Perahera, organized by Walukarama Temple in Kollupitiya, is scheduled to take place from August 2 to August 7, 2026. During the meeting, attention was given to securing state support and coordinating the necessary preparations to conduct the procession on a grand scale.
The final Randoli Perahera will be held on the night of August 7, beginning from Walukarama Road, proceeding along Galle Road through the Kollupitiya Junction, circling Liberty Roundabout, continuing along R.A. de Mel Mawatha, and returning to the temple.
Discussions also focused on the contributions of government institutions and public and private sector sponsors to ensure the successful organization of the event, including logistical, financial, and security arrangements.
Speaking at the meeting, Venerable Maharagama Nanda Nayaka Thera, Chief Incumbent of Walukarama Temple and the five principal temples under its administration, as well as Chief Sanghanayake of the Colombo District and Uva Province, said the procession had not been held in recent years due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the country's economic crisis.
He noted that the improved national situation has enabled the temple to revive the historic procession and expressed appreciation for the support extended by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and the Government in facilitating this year's event.
Among those present were Ven. Udawela Kolitha Thera, Ven. Alkaduwa Nabhitha Thera, Ven. Amugoda Saddhalankara Thera, Ven. Unapana Nanda Wimala Thera of Royal College, Senior Additional Secretary to the President Roshan Gamage, Colombo Assistant District Secretary N.S. Pathirana, senior officials representing government institutions, sponsoring organizations, and members of the security forces.
The Walukarama Esala Maha Perahera is one of Colombo's prominent Buddhist cultural pageants, drawing thousands of devotees and visitors each year while showcasing Sri Lanka's rich religious and cultural heritage.
