Kandy annual Esala Perahera will begin on 12th August and continue till 25th August followed by the Day Perahera on 26th August 2018
The Esala
Perahera in Kandy, Sri Lanka is celebrated to honour the Sacred Tooth Relic and the four ‘guardian’ Gods Natha, Vishnu, Kataragama and Goddess Pattini. The Kandy Maligawa Perahera is followed in order by those of the Natha, Vishnu, Kataragama and Pattini ‘Devales’ (Temples dedicated to these Gods) which are situated in the vicinity of the Kandy Maligawa (Temple of the Tooth).
The purpose of the Kandy Esala Perahera Procession is to beseech blessings of the gods to obtain rain for the cultivation of crops and to enrich the lands of the kingdom.
This ritual is performed by carrying
the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha through the streets of the Kandy city which is done with exceptional panache. This is considered as one of the most beautiful pageants in the Asia.
The first ritual ‘Kap Situweema’ (planting of a sanctified young Jackfruit Tree) will be held to commence the rituals that start off Perahera.
The ritual is performed according to an auspicious time decided by astrologers. The Jackfruit tree is sprinkled with sandalwood scented water and offerings are is made of nine kinds of flowers and an oil lamp with nine wic
ks. The priest of the Maha Vishnu Devale (Vishnu Temple) recites his prayers to all the gods.
The customary erection of the ‘Kap’ prior to the commencement of the perahera will take place in the morning of 12 August 2018. The Perahera within the ‘devales’ will continue till 15 August.
Spectacular Esala Perahera Streets Parade commence on the night of 16 August and continue daily by night 20 August 2018.
For further information follow: www.sridaladamaligawa.lk
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