With thousands of devotees expected to attend, authorities have unveiled comprehensive plans to ensure safety and smooth crowd management during the annual Colombo Navam Maha Perahera and the sacred relics exhibition at Gangaramaya Vihara in Hunupitiya.
The Perahera will be held on January 31 and February 1, commencing at 7.30 p.m. and concluding before 10.00 p.m., parading through Colombo’s streets with around 8,000 dancers and elephants performing traditional dances. Specially decorated floats will depict key events in Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage, including the arrival of Arahat Mahinda, the bringing of the Sri Maha Bodhi, and the arrival of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
Following the procession, sacred relics from the Devnimodara shrine in India will be displayed at Gangaramaya Vihara from February 4 to 11. Most Venerable Dr. Kirinde Assaji Thero urged devotees to wear white attire and avoid bringing valuables or large luggage to facilitate smooth movement.
Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs Dr. Hiniduma Sunil Senevi said a new mobile application will allow devotees to check the approximate time they can venerate the Sarvagna Dhathu, helping manage crowds efficiently.
Senior DIG G. Nishantha de Zoysa highlighted that a special security plan, coordinated with the tri-forces and police, is in place. A detailed traffic management plan, including alternative routes, has also been prepared to minimize congestion. The Senior DIG advised the public against bringing large luggage, jewellery, mobile phones, or other valuables when visiting the exhibition.
Authorities emphasized that these measures aim to provide a safe and organized experience, allowing devotees to fully engage in the religious observances and veneration of the sacred relics.
