Esala Perahera
Esala Perahera, or the "Esala Procession," is a remarkable and ancient Buddhist festival that takes place every year in the historic city of Kandy, Sri Lanka. With a history that dates back over a millennium, this event is both an extraordinary showcase of Sri Lankan culture and a profoundly spiritual experience for visitors and locals alike.
Held in honor of the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha, the festival is an amalgamation of vibrant music, dance, colorful pageantry, and sacred rituals that make it one of the most spectacular events in Sri Lanka.
History of the Kandy Esala Perahera
The roots of Esala Perahera can be traced back to the 4th century AD when Princess Hemamali and her husband, Prince Dantha, brought the Sacred Tooth Relic to Sri Lanka from India. It was believed by the people that the ruler who held the relic had the divine right to govern the land.
Throughout the centuries, the Sacred Tooth Relic was housed in several temples across the island. Finally, in the 16th century, it found its permanent home in Kandy's Sri Dalada Maligawa, or the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
The Esala Perahera festival is organized to honor and pay homage to the Sacred Tooth Relic. It serves as an important spiritual event for the country's Buddhist community.
The Ten-Day Extravaganza
The Esala Perahera is a ten-day event that typically takes place during the months of July or August, with the specific dates being determined by the lunar calendar. The festival is divided into two main parts: the Kumbal Perahera and the Randoli Perahera. The first five days consist of the Kumbal Perahera, which is relatively simple. The second half, the Randoli Perahera, is more elaborate and ends with the grand finale on the tenth day.
The Grand Procession
The highlight of Esala Perahera is undoubtedly the grand procession that occurs on the final night of the festival. A spectacular display of Sri Lankan culture and tradition, the procession is led by a group of skilled drummers who play traditional instruments such as the 'davul,' 'thammattama,' and the 'horanewa'. These drummers set the pace and rhythm for the rest of the procession.
Following the drummers, there are numerous troupes of dancers, including Kandyan dancers, fire dancers, and whip-crackers, all dressed in vivid and intricate traditional attire. The dancers are accompanied by musicians playing flutes, tambourines, and other traditional instruments, creating a lively atmosphere that captivates the audience.
Adding to the visual splendor of the procession are the elaborately decorated elephants adorned with vibrant garments, jewelry, and intricate designs. The most important elephant of the procession carries a replica of the Sacred Tooth Relic in a golden casket on its back. As the procession winds through the streets of Kandy, thousands of locals and tourists gather to witness this unforgettable spectacle.
Spiritual Significance of the Esala Perahera in Kandy
Beyond the dazzling display of music, dance, and color, the Esala Perahera holds immense spiritual importance for Sri Lanka's Buddhist community. The festival is a time of grand celebration and deep devotion, with many people participating in religious ceremonies and offering prayers at the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
It is believed that witnessing the procession brings good luck and blessings, making the event a deeply moving and transformative experience for all who attend.
Experiencing the Esala Perahera as a Tourist
For visitors to Sri Lanka, the Esala Perahera offers a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the island nation's rich cultural heritage and spirituality. Kandy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a popular tourist destination in its own right, with attractions such as the Royal Palace, the Kandy Lake, and the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens.
The addition of the Esala Perahera brings an extra layer of excitement and spectacle to the city, making it an unforgettable experience for travelers. However, visitors should be prepared for large crowds and limited accommodations during the festival. Due to the influx of tourists and pilgrims, booking accommodations and transportation well in advance is recommended.
Tips for Enjoying the Esala Perahera
- Secure a good viewing spot: To get the best view of the procession, arrive early and find a spot along the main streets of Kandy. Some establishments also offer balcony seating for a fee, providing an unobstructed view of the festivities.
- Dress appropriately: As a religious event, it is important to dress modestly when attending the Esala Perahera. Visitors should avoid revealing clothing and cover their shoulders and knees.
- Wear comfortable footwear: It's important to wear comfortable shoes, as you may be standing for several hours.
- Capture the memories: Bring a camera to capture the stunning visuals of the Esala Perahera. However, be mindful of the local customs and avoid using flash photography near the elephants or during the more solemn moments of the procession.
The Esala Perahera is one of many things you can experience in the beautiful city of Kandy. Find out more in our article about the top things to do in Kandy.
The Esala Perahera is undoubtedly Sri Lanka's most significant religious festival, attracting thousands of visitors annually. With its breathtaking display of colorful elephants, traditional music, dance, and sacred rituals, it is a perfect opportunity for tourists to experience the rich history, culture, and spirituality of Sri Lanka. It will be an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience that you will cherish for years to come.