Exploring the Rich Heritage of Kandy Esala Perahera

The Kandy Esala Perahera has deep historical roots dating back to ancient times. It is believed to have originated during King Kirthi Sri Meghavarna (301-328 AD), when the Sacred Tooth Relic was brought to Sri Lanka. The Perahera, originally a simple ritual, has evolved into a grand spectacle, incorporating various cultural and religious elements over the centuries. It serves as a means to invoke blessings for rain, fertility, and prosperity for the land and its people.

Role of the Sacred Tooth Relic

The Sacred Tooth Relic holds immense significance in Buddhism, symbolizing the Buddha’s presence and spiritual authority. It is revered by Buddhists worldwide and is considered a symbol of Sri Lankan sovereignty. The Tooth Relic’s journey from India to Sri Lanka and its preservation in the Temple of the Tooth Relic are pivotal moments in the island’s history, making the Esala Perahera a deeply revered event.

Organizing the Event

Preparing for the Kandy Esala Perahera is a meticulous and collaborative effort involving various stakeholders, including the temple authorities, local government, and cultural organizations. Months of planning and rehearsals ensure that every aspect of the procession, from the choreography of traditional dances to the coordination of elephants, is executed flawlessly. The community’s collective effort underscores the event’s cultural and religious importance.

Architectural and Spiritual Significance of the Temple of the Tooth Relic

The Temple of the Tooth Relic, located in the heart of Kandy, is an architectural marvel and a spiritual sanctuary. Its intricate design, influenced by Kandyan, Dravidian, and Sinhalese architectural styles, reflects Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage. The temple complex, adorned with elaborate frescoes, carvings, and paintings, provides a serene backdrop for the Sacred Tooth Relic. Pilgrims and visitors are drawn to its sanctity, seeking spiritual solace and blessings.

The History of Kandy Esala Perahera is a mesmerizing tale that weaves together the traditions, culture, and spirituality of Sri Lanka. This grand festival, a celebration of immense significance, paints a vivid picture of devotion, grandeur, and the beauty of Sinhalese culture. Join us as we journey through the captivating chapters of this extraordinary event.

Origins of the Perahera Pageant

The roots of the Kandy Esala Perahera can be traced back to Emperor Asoka of India, during which the concept of perahara pageants gained prominence. This tradition, now synonymous with Kandy, showcases a harmonious blend of Buddhist and Hindu religious customs. These pageants are a vibrant testament to the rich cultural tapestry of Sri Lanka.

Embracing Sinhalese Culture

The Kandy Esala Perahera is a vibrant canvas on which the colours of Sinhalese culture come to life. Most of its customs are derived from the “Dantha Dhathu Charitha” or “Dalada Siritha,” a book that delves into the traditions associated with the sacred Tooth Relic. This invaluable text was penned during the rule of Parakramabahu IV (1302-1326) in Kurunagala, providing a blueprint for the perahara pageant.

The “Dalada Siritha” prescribes 38 statutes that must be followed during the pageant. The rituals include cleaning the Shrine Room of the Sacred Tooth Relic at an auspicious hour, adorning canopies with silk clothes, and offerings rice, flowers, and oil lamps by the King’s team of ministers and the city’s general public. The city itself is transformed into a heavenly spectacle on the seventh day evening, culminating in the procession of the Sacred Relic, led by the chief priests of the Uttara Mula Sect and personnel of two castes, Ganavesi and Kilin.

The Evolution of the Perahera Procession

Over the centuries, the Kandy Esala Perahera has evolved into a grand spectacle, encompassing various segments highlighting aspects of Sri Lankan culture and tradition. The procession is a blend of Buddhist and Hindu rituals, showcasing the island nation’s religious harmony and cultural diversity.

The festivities kick off with the sacred planting of a young Jackfruit tree in the precincts of the four Devales (temples) dedicated to the guardian deities Natha, Vishnu, Kataragama, and the goddess Pattini. This ritual, known as the Kap Situveema or Kappa, is a powerful symbol of invoking blessings for the king and the people.

As the days progress, the procession grows in scale and grandeur, culminating in the Maha Randoli Perahera, the grand finale. Each night, the streets of Kandy come alive with the sounds of traditional drums, the sight of vibrant costumes, and the rhythmic movements of dancers. The inclusion of elephants adorned in opulent attire adds a majestic touch to the event.

Kumbal Perahera – Banishing Evil

The Kandy Esala Perahera commences with the Kumbal Perahera, a procession steeped in tradition. Its primary purpose is to protect infants from evil spells and ill will. This five-day parade through the streets of Kandy is a visual spectacle, although it is considered an unfinished or semi-procession. Notably, the Nilames do not participate in this leg of the event, while the Drummers and Tuskers take part without their ceremonial attire.

Randoli Perahera – A Royal Tradition

The Randoli Perahera, an integral part of the Sacred Tooth Relic procession, also spans five days. In the days of the Kings, the Chief Queens paraded in this procession in palanquins. However, their participation was deemed inappropriate, leading to the exclusion of queens. Nonetheless, a palanquin is included as an honorary gesture to the Queen in the modern procession. The four Devalas contribute by carrying their own decorated palanquins, enhancing the overall grandeur of the event.

Maha Randoli Perahera – The Grand Finale

The Maha Randoli Perahera is the grandest and final procession of the festival. This spectacle is a sight, with Tuskers adorned in garlands and opulent gold-stitched costumes. The drummers take centre stage, donning elaborate ceremonial attire. The Diyawadana Nilame adds a touch of novelty to the procession with a newly stitched outfit, making it the pinnacle of the event.

The Modern Perahera

The Modern Perahera, as we know it today, traces its origins back to King Kirthi Sri Rajasinghe (1747 – 1781 AD) of the Kandyan Kingdom. During his reign, the Tooth Relic was opened to the public, allowing all to witness and venerate this sacred Relic. After the British takeover in 1815, the custodianship of the Relic was passed over to the Buddhist Clergy, and the Diyawadana Nilame was appointed to handle administrative matters in the absence of the King.

A Legacy of Blessings

The Kandy Esala Perahera commences with the Kap Situveema or Kappa. During this symbolic ceremony, a sanctified young Jackfruit tree is cut and planted in the beliefs of the four Devales dedicated to the guardian gods Natha, Vishnu, Katharagama, and the goddess Pattini. This tradition symbolizes the bestowal of blessings upon the King and the people.

As the grandeur of the Kandy Esala Perahera unfolds, we are reminded of the beauty and splendour of Sri Lankan culture. This spectacle continues to capture the hearts and imaginations of all who witness it.