The annual Esala Perahera of the historic Sri Dalada Maligawa in Kandy officially commenced today (August 13) with the traditional Kap planting ceremony, held at 6:17 a.m. at an auspicious time.
Following the ceremony, internal processions will be conducted for five days, from August 13 to 17, at the four main devales dedicated to Natha, Vishnu, Pattini and Kataragama.
The first Kumbal Perahera is scheduled to take to the streets on August 18. The Kumbal processions will continue through August 22.
The first Randoli Perahera will commence on August 23, with the grand final Randoli procession scheduled for August 27.
On August 28, the traditional water-cutting ceremony (Diya Kapeema) and the daytime procession will be held, marking the conclusion of the main Perahera festivities.
Later that day, the Diyawadana Nilame is scheduled to present the official Perahera Sandeeshaya, confirming the successful completion of the annual procession, to the President at the President’s House in Kandy.
The Kandy Esala Perahera is one of Sri Lanka’s most significant cultural and religious festivals, attracting large crowds of devotees and visitors each year.
