Kandy Esala Perehara | Sri Lanka

Introduction to Esala Perahera

Sri Lanka boasts a rich and proud history, with the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, or Dalada Maligawa, standing as one of its most significant landmarks. Situated in the heart of Kandy, within the royal palace complex of the former Kingdom of Kandy, this temple is not only a revered religious site but also a symbol of political and cultural power. The temple houses the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha, which holds great spiritual significance for Sri Lankans and Buddhists worldwide. The rich historical, cultural, and political background of the temple is reflected in the many customs and traditions, including the famed Kandy Perahara, also known as the Festival of the Tooth.

The Esala Perahera, a major event of Sri Lankan culture, traces its origins back to King Kithsirimewan’s reign (301-328 AD), where it began as the “Dalada Perahera.” In the 18th century, King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe expanded the ceremony to include several deities such as Vishnu, Kataragama, Natha, and Paththini, renaming it the “Senkadha Perahera.” This colorful and vibrant procession has since become an annual event, paying homage to the Sacred Tooth Relic and invoking blessings for rainfall, which is essential for the agricultural life of the island.

The World’s Prestigious Procession

The Kandy Esala Perahara, held annually in August, is Sri Lanka’s most prestigious cultural event. During this time, the city of Kandy becomes a bustling hub for both locals and international tourists. The central event, the Dalada Perehara, is a stunning spectacle of religious devotion and cultural expression. Other important processions, such as the “Natha Dewala Perehara,” “Kataragama Dewala Perehara,” “Vishnu Dewala Perehara,” and “Paththini Dewala Perehara,” join the main procession, each with its own unique attributes.

Every procession is conducted at an auspicious time, ensuring the divine blessings of the event. The “Kap Situweeme Ritual” marks the beginning, while the “Diya Kapeeme Ritual” or Water Cutting Ceremony concludes the procession. The latter takes place at the Mahaweli River, where devotees immerse themselves in the water, believing it possesses healing powers that can cure ailments.

Cultural and Political Significance

The Esala Perahara is a perfect fusion of religion, art, and politics, with participants donning extravagant costumes that highlight Sri Lanka’s vibrant cultural heritage. Among the most striking features of the procession are the elephants adorned in lavish garments, marching in rhythm to the sounds of drums. The procession’s centerpiece is the elephant “Nedumgamuwe Raja,” which carries the Sacred Tooth Relic.

The festival features traditional dances such as the Fire Dance, Whip Dance, Kandyan Dance, Sabaragamuwa Dance, and Pahatharata Dance, each symbolizing different aspects of nature. The Fire Dance, which is a favorite among visitors, represents lightning, while the elephant procession symbolizes the clouds, the drumbeats signify thunder, and the Water Cutting Ceremony signals the arrival of rain. These elements collectively depict the island’s deep connection to nature and the divine.

How to Reach

The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is located in the city of Kandy, in central Sri Lanka, approximately 115 km from Colombo, the country’s capital.

• By Car: You can reach Kandy via the A1 road from Colombo, which takes around 2.5 to 3 hours by car. The drive offers picturesque views of Sri Lanka’s countryside, making it a pleasant journey.
• By Train: Kandy is accessible via train from Colombo. The train ride offers scenic views of tea plantations and forests, making it a popular option for tourists.
• By Bus: Numerous buses run daily from Colombo to Kandy, which is an affordable option for travelers. The bus ride takes around 3 to 4 hours depending on traffic.

Once in Kandy, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is easily accessible from the city center by foot or a short taxi ride.

Significance

The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic holds immense religious, cultural, and political importance in Sri Lanka. As the home of the Buddha’s tooth relic, it is a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists and a symbol of the island’s Buddhist heritage. The Sacred Tooth Relic is not only a sacred object of worship but also a symbol of the nation’s sovereignty. Throughout Sri Lanka’s history, the possession of the Tooth Relic has been linked to political legitimacy, with kings and rulers safeguarding it as a way of affirming their rule over the island.

The Esala Perahara, which honors the Sacred Tooth Relic, is a reminder of the deep interconnections between religion, culture, and politics in Sri Lanka. The procession and its associated rituals highlight the island’s strong traditions, its respect for nature, and the belief in divine protection and blessings. It is a vibrant celebration of Sri Lanka’s national identity and a significant cultural event that attracts visitors from around the world.

Conclusion

The Kandy Esala Perahera is more than just a festival—it is a living tradition that embodies Sri Lanka’s religious devotion, cultural richness, and political history. It serves as an opportunity for both locals and visitors to immerse themselves in the island’s unique heritage. For those interested in understanding Sri Lanka’s past and present, the procession is a must-see event that encapsulates the essence of the country’s identity.

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