Kandy Esala Perahera

The Kandy Esala Perahera is a vibrant and captivating cultural extravaganza that takes place in the city of Kandy, Sri Lanka. Regarded as one of the grandest and most significant festivals in the country, it combines religious devotion, historical traditions, and stunning pageantry. Lasting for ten nights, the Esala Perahera is a spectacle that draws thousands of locals and tourists alike, creating an unforgettable experience. This article delves into the history, significance, and elements that make the Kandy Esala Perahera an unparalleled celebration, offering insight into the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka.

Historical Background

The Origins of the Kandy Esala Perahera:

The genesis of the Kandy Esala Perahera can be traced back to the 4th century BCE, during the reign of King Kirthi Sri Meghavarna. It is believed that the Perahera, in its early form, was an ancient ritual performed to invoke rainfall and prosperity. Over time, the Perahera became intrinsically linked to Buddhism, incorporating elements of the sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha, which was brought to Sri Lanka from India in the 4th century CE.

The Arrival of the Tooth Relic in Kandy:

In the 16th century, Kandy became the last bastion of independent Sri Lankan kingdoms, as the maritime colonial powers exerted control over other regions. It was during this period that the sacred Tooth Relic found its way to Kandy. In 1595, after numerous relocations, the Tooth Relic was enshrined in the newly constructed Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa) in Kandy, under the patronage of King Vimaladharmasuriya I. This pivotal event marked the beginning of the Kandy Esala Perahera as an annual procession.

The Development of the Kandy Esala Perahera:

During the reign of King Rajasinghe II (1635-1687), the Perahera gained prominence and grandeur. The king initiated significant improvements to the procession, expanding its scale and introducing diverse cultural elements. The Perahera began to feature elaborately adorned elephants, drummers, dancers, fire performers, and various other traditional performers. King Rajasinghe II’s contributions played a vital role in transforming the Perahera into the magnificent spectacle we witness today.

Symbolism and Significance:

The Kandy Esala Perahera encompasses profound symbolism and spiritual significance. The majestic tusker carrying the golden casket, which houses the sacred Tooth Relic, symbolizes the protection and prosperity of the nation. The Perahera acts as a conduit between the people and the divine, fostering religious devotion, cultural unity, and social harmony among diverse communities in Sri Lanka. It also serves as an essential platform for passing down traditional arts and crafts from generation to generation.

Challenges and Preservation:

Throughout history, the Kandy Esala Perahera faced numerous challenges, including colonial suppression and cultural assimilation attempts. Yet, it persevered and endured, with successive generations of Sri Lankans dedicated to its preservation. In 1980, the Perahera was inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, recognizing its exceptional value to the world.

Significance and Religious Importance

Religious Significance:

The Kandy Esala Perahera holds profound religious significance for Buddhists. The sacred tooth relic, believed to be one of the Buddha’s teeth, is enshrined within the Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa) in Kandy. During the Perahera, the relic is placed upon a majestic tusker, adorned with richly decorated attire, and paraded through the streets. This procession symbolizes the power of Buddhism and the importance of protecting and venerating the sacred relic.

Rituals and Ceremonies:

The Perahera spans several nights, each filled with diverse rituals and ceremonies. The opening ceremony, known as “Kap Situveema,” involves planting a sanctified young jackfruit tree to signify the commencement of the festival. This is followed by the ‘Kumbal Perahera,’ a series of nightly processions featuring whip-crackers, drummers, flag bearers, and traditional dancers. As the festival progresses, the intensity and grandeur reach their peak during the final nights, known as the ‘Randoli Perahera.’ The streets come alive with elaborately costumed performers, fire dancers, acrobats, and a multitude of caparisoned elephants.

Among the various captivating elements of the Kandy Esala Perahera are the Diya Kepeema and Day Perahera, two mesmerizing events that exude a unique charm and spiritual significance. Let us delve into the enchanting world of Diya Kepeema and Day Perahera, and explore the magic they bring to the grand festivities.

Diya Kepeema: The Illuminated Spectacle

Diya Kepeema, which translates to “the ceremony of lighting lamps,” is a breathtaking display of illuminated creativity. This event takes place several nights before the main Kandy Esala Perahera and sets the stage for the grandeur that follows. During Diya Kepeema, the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic and its surrounding areas are adorned with thousands of oil lamps, creating a resplendent spectacle that illuminates the night sky.

The Diya Kepeema ceremony holds deep spiritual significance. The lighting of the lamps symbolizes the dispelling of darkness and the arrival of light, both literally and metaphorically. The glowing lamps represent the devotion of the people towards Lord Buddha and the hope for a bright future. As the golden light flickers against the backdrop of the sacred temple, it creates an ethereal ambiance that fills the hearts of onlookers with tranquility and awe.

Day Perahera: The Majestic Procession

The Day Perahera is a vibrant daytime procession that forms an integral part of the Kandy Esala Perahera. It takes place on the final day of the grand festival, marking the pinnacle of the celebrations. The Day Perahera features a multitude of captivating elements, including beautifully adorned elephants, traditional dancers, musicians, fire breathers, whip crackers, and flag bearers.

At the forefront of the Day Perahera is the magnificent Maligawa Tusker, the most revered elephant of the Sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic. Adorned in elaborate regalia and draped in colorful fabrics, the tusker carries the sacred relic casket, which is the focal point of veneration during the procession. The elephant’s majestic presence, combined with the rhythmic beats of drums and the melodious tunes of flutes and trumpets, creates an atmosphere of grandeur and spiritual fervor.

As the Day Perahera progresses through the streets of Kandy, spectators are treated to a sensory feast. Dancers sway gracefully, depicting traditional rituals and cultural tales, while fire performers amaze the crowd with their daring acts. The vibrant costumes, intricate masks, and exquisitely crafted floats add to the visual splendor, showcasing the diverse cultural heritage of Sri Lanka.

The Significance and Unity of Diya Kepeema and Day Perahera

Diya Kepeema and Day Perahera hold immense cultural and religious significance. They bring together people from all walks of life, transcending social barriers, as devotees and spectators alike immerse themselves in the spiritual ambiance of the festivities. These events foster a sense of unity and communal harmony, emphasizing the shared heritage and traditions of Sri Lanka.

The Kandy Esala Perahera, with its captivating Diya Kepeema and majestic Day Perahera, serves as a testament to the rich tapestry of Sri Lankan culture. It is a celebration of faith, devotion, and the artistic prowess of its people. Visitors who witness the spectacle are left with indelible memories of a truly unique experience, one that ignites the imagination and touches the soul.

Cultural and Artistic Splendor:

Beyond its religious importance, the Kandy Esala Perahera showcases Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage. The procession features a kaleidoscope of traditional dancers performing various forms of dance, such as Kandyan, Sabaragamuwa, and Udarata. The rhythmic beats of drums, the resounding sounds of conch shells, and the melodic tunes of flute players create an enchanting atmosphere. The Perahera is also an opportunity for artisans and craftsmen to showcase their skills, with beautifully crafted costumes, jewelry, and decorative ornaments adding to the visual spectacle.

Community Participation and Devotion:

The Kandy Esala Perahera is not only a religious event but also a celebration that unites communities across Sri Lanka. Devotees from all walks of life gather to witness the procession, offering their prayers and seeking blessings. Many families engage in religious observances, including fasting and participating in acts of merit, as a mark of devotion. The Perahera also attracts a significant number of tourists, who are captivated by the grandeur and spiritual aura of the event.

Preparations and Rituals

Months before the Esala Perahera, extensive preparations are made to ensure its smooth execution. The organizing committee, comprising religious leaders, officials, and volunteers, meticulously plans the event. Elaborate costumes, intricately designed decorations, and beautifully adorned elephants are prepared to dazzle the spectators.

The festival begins with the Kap Situveema, a ritual that plants a sanctified young jackfruit tree within the premises of each devale (shrine). This ritual signifies the announcement of the forthcoming Perahera. Following this, a series of religious observances and ceremonies take place, including the planting of young coconut plants and the distribution of herbal preparations to elephants.

The Grand Procession

The highlight of the Kandy Esala Perahera is the grand procession that parades through the streets of Kandy for ten consecutive nights. The procession features various cultural elements and meticulously choreographed performances, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.

The Perahera begins with whip-crackers clearing the way, followed by flag bearers representing each devale. Drummers set the rhythm, while traditional dancers perform intricate routines. Fire dancers, acrobats, and stilt walkers add an element of excitement and skill to the procession.

The majestic tuskers, adorned with vibrant costumes and intricate ornaments, are the center of attention. The Maligawa Tusker, carrying the sacred tooth relic casket, is the most revered among them. As the procession advances, devotees offer flowers, light lamps, and chant prayers, seeking blessings and protection.

Cultural Significance and Tourism

Cultural Showcase:

The Kandy Esala Perahara is a captivating showcase of Sri Lankan culture and traditions. The processions include various dance forms such as Kandyan dances, fire dances, whip dances, and drumming ensembles. These performances display the diversity and vibrancy of the country’s artistic heritage, captivating both locals and visitors alike. The intricate handcrafted costumes, vibrant masks, and elaborate headpieces worn by the dancers reflect the unique craftsmanship and attention to detail that has been passed down through generations.

Tourism and Economic Impact:

The Kandy Esala Perahara has emerged as a major tourist attraction, drawing thousands of visitors from across the globe. Tourists flock to Kandy during this festival to witness the grandeur and immerse themselves in the cultural ambiance. The influx of visitors provides a significant boost to the local economy, benefiting the hospitality industry, transportation services, and handicraft vendors. Additionally, the increased exposure of Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage through the festival helps promote the country as a prime destination for cultural tourism.

Preservation and Challenges:

While the Kandy Esala Perahara continues to thrive and captivate audiences, preserving its authenticity and cultural significance poses challenges. The delicate balance between tradition and modernity, as well as the need to ensure the ethical treatment of elephants involved in the processions, are ongoing concerns. Efforts are being made to address these challenges by incorporating sustainable practices, promoting animal welfare, and safeguarding the cultural heritage associated with the festival.