Picture the streets of Kandy come alive with the rhythmic beats of traditional drummers, the hypnotic twirls of fire dancers, and the regal elegance of richly adorned elephants parading through the city in a magnificent spectacle of devotion.
This is a mere gist of what the Dalada Perahara is.
Also known as the Kandy Esala Perahara, the procession, taking place in the July-August period, occurs as tradition of Sri Lanka’s community as means to pay homage to the sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha, held custody by the Sri Dalada Maligawa of Kandy, and has been followed on an annual basis; a tradition that dates back nearly 1500 years. The Dalada Perahara is an iconic celebration of the country’s history, religion and culture, and you would certainly not want to miss out on what it has to offer; it definitely is something that you must witness at least once in your lifetime!
To speak of each and every element that makes up the Perahara tradition would take us more than a few minutes; there is just that many rituals and practices that are followed in prior to the main processions, and after. However there are certain of these which are most significant- highlights that are looked forward to the most by the onlookers. The whip crackers and fire dancers, for instance; entrusted with signalling the start of the procession with their electrifying displays of energy and skill. The Kandyan dancers; their performances of utmost grace and agility, leaps and twirls that leave onlookers both amazed and enthralled. The drummers; rhythmic beating of Sri Lanka’s traditional drums and the main source of music. Nobles on horseback; riders in traditional attire that symbolize the aristocratic hierarchy of the bygone eras. And of course, the centrepiece around which the entire procession is built upon; the magnificent Maligawa Tusker- the lead elephant who carries the sacred golden casket of the Tooth Relic.
Witnessing the grandeur of this procession is done best by either securing a front row seat along the procession route, or by booking a hotel with a balcony view of Kandy’s streets. Of course, for this early arrival is near mandatory, and it is considered respectful to be dressed modestly, as the procession is a religious practice. A live crowd is to be expected, one that is comprised of both local and foreign onlookers, as the Kandy Perahara is an event that is anticipated by the locals just as much. The procession occurs throughout the span of ten days, with the final Maha Randoli Perahara being most exclusive, extravagant and extremely lavish in its execution.
Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, a spiritual traveller, or simply an adventurer, the Kandy Esala Perahara is definitely a must-see. It is not simply a festival; it is a journey, one bedecked with elements of Sri Lanka’s history and culture. It is a feast for your senses, and is bound to have you enthralled throughout it in entirety.
Be sure to check out our souvenirs section as you make your way through the website; it is a trove of handicrafts and tokens, crafted by the country’s artisan community.
