August is a very important month, as many significant peraharas (processions) are held. The Esala perahera is one of the most famous peraheras in Sri Lanka. It is also known as the Kandy Dalada Perahera. It is the most historical pageant in Sri Lanka.
This perahera started during the time of King Keerthi Sri Rajasinghe. People participate in this perahera to get blessings for the country and rain for agriculture.
The water-cutting ceremony occurs before and after the Esala perahera, followed by the four Devala peraheras. Whip crackers, fire bowlers, and acrobats clear the route of the perahera. Then comes the Peramune Rala, and a group of drummers behind him. The sacred casket is carried, followed by the drummers and dancers. The relic casket is placed on the gaily adorned tusker.
This is a very interesting perahera. Local and foreign tourists gather in Kandy to watch the perahera.
R.M.R. Nehansa Sanoli Ranaraja
Grade 10
Girls’ High School
Kandy
