Kandy Esala Perahera: A Spectacle of Tradition and Devotion
The Kandy Esala Perahera, also known as the Festival of the Tooth, is one of Sri Lanka’s most significant cultural and religious events. Held annually in the historic city of Kandy, this grand procession celebrates the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha, housed in the revered Sri Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Tooth). The festival typically takes place in the months of July or August, corresponding with the Esala Poya, a full moon day that marks an auspicious time in the Buddhist calendar.
Historical Significance
The origins of the Kandy Esala Perahera date back to ancient times, when the Sacred Tooth Relic was brought to Sri Lanka from India in the 4th century AD. The relic, considered a symbol of sovereignty and divine protection, was enshrined in various locations across the island before finding its permanent home in Kandy. The Esala Perahera itself evolved from a blend of two separate traditions: the ancient Esala festival, which was a time of thanksgiving and celebration of the gods, and the Perahera, a procession to honor and safeguard the Sacred Tooth Relic. Over the centuries, these traditions merged, creating the vibrant and elaborate festival seen today.
The Procession
The Kandy Esala Perahera spans ten days, with each day featuring increasingly elaborate ceremonies and processions. The festival kicks off with the Kap Situveema, a ritual where a sanctified young jackfruit tree is planted in each of the four Devales (temples) dedicated to the guardian deities Natha, Vishnu, Kataragama, and Pattini. This act is believed to invoke blessings and protection for the participants and the city.
As the days progress, the processions become more grandiose, culminating in the Randoli Perahera, the most spectacular of all. Each night, the streets of Kandy come alive with a mesmerizing display of traditional dancers, drummers, and adorned elephants. The highlight of the procession is the Maligawa Tusker, a majestic elephant chosen to carry the golden casket containing the Sacred Tooth Relic. Although the actual relic is not displayed, the symbolic presence of the casket is a powerful representation of the Buddha’s teachings and a source of immense spiritual reverence.
The procession is meticulously organized, featuring dancers and performers representing different cultural and historical traditions of Sri Lanka. Whip-crackers lead the way, clearing the path and announcing the arrival of the Perahera. Traditional drummers and flutists provide a rhythmic backdrop, while dancers perform age-old Kandyan routines, leaping and twirling with grace and precision. Fire dancers add an element of drama, spinning and juggling flaming torches, while intricately costumed elephants, adorned with colorful garments and lights, bring a majestic and awe-inspiring presence to the procession.
Spiritual and Cultural Impact
The Kandy Esala Perahera is not just a visual spectacle but also a profound spiritual experience for the participants and onlookers. Devotees believe that participating in or witnessing the Perahera brings blessings, spiritual merit, and protection from misfortune. For many, it is an opportunity to reaffirm their faith and express devotion to the Buddha and the guardian deities.
Beyond its religious significance, the Esala Perahera serves as a powerful expression of Sri Lankan culture and heritage. It is a time when the country’s artistic traditions—dance, music, craftsmanship—are showcased in their full glory. The festival also fosters a sense of community and shared identity, drawing people from all walks of life to participate in and witness the grandeur of the procession.
Visiting the Perahera
For visitors to Sri Lanka, attending the Kandy Esala Perahera is a unique and unforgettable experience. It is advisable to plan your visit well in advance, as the festival attracts large crowds and accommodation in Kandy can fill up quickly. Viewing stands are set up along the procession route, offering the best vantage points to observe the festivities. While in Kandy, visitors can also explore the Sri Dalada Maligawa, the Royal Palace, and other historical sites to gain a deeper understanding of the city’s rich heritage.
In summary, the Kandy Esala Perahera is a dazzling display of Sri Lanka’s religious devotion, cultural richness, and historical legacy. It is a testament to the enduring significance of the Sacred Tooth Relic and a vibrant celebration that brings together tradition, spirituality, and community in a grand and unforgettable spectacle.
