Kandy Esala Perahera

The Kandy Esala Perahera, often referred to as the Festival of the Tooth, is an annual celebration held in Kandy, Sri Lanka, typically during July and August. This grand procession honors the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha, which is enshrined at the Sri Dalada Maligawa in Kandy. The festival offers a spectacular display of traditional local dances, including fire-dances, whip-dances, and Kandyan dances, alongside other cultural performances. Adding to the grandeur, elephants adorned in elaborate garments parade through the streets. The event culminates with the diya-kepeema ritual, a water-cutting ceremony at the Mahaweli River in Getambe, Kandy.

The origins of this festival date back to ancient times. Initially, the Esala Perahera began as a rain-making ritual, while the Dalada Perahera commenced when the Sacred Tooth Relic was brought to Sri Lanka. Over time, under the influence of Upali Thera, the focus of the procession shifted from honoring Hindu deities to venerating the Buddha. Following British rule, the responsibility of safeguarding the Relic was entrusted to the Buddhist clergy.

The procession unfolds in various stages, including the Kap Situveema, Devale Peraheras, Kumbal Perahera, Randoli Perahera, and Diya Kepeema. Although women’s participation is somewhat limited, they play a significant role in the final Randoli Perahera. The entire event is meticulously organized by the Diyawadana Nilame, who collaborates with temple officials, elephant owners, and dance troupes to ensure everything runs smoothly.

After the Perahera, a formal letter known as the Perahera Sandeshaya is presented to the President, signifying the successful completion of the annual event. The Kandy Esala Perahera is not just a festival but a vital cultural and religious event in Sri Lanka, showcasing the nation’s rich traditions and heritage.