Kandy Esala Perahera Pageant 2024

Exploring the Rich Heritage of Kandy Esala Perahera

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.

Continuing Traditions

Remarkably, these ancient rites continue to be faithfully performed to this day. The Kandy Esala Perahera remains a testament to the enduring commitment of the Sinhalese people to their rich heritage.

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.