Kandy Esala Perahara Traditions

The Kandy Esala Perahera, a grand Buddhist festival held annually in Kandy, Sri Lanka, is renowned for its elaborate and vibrant procession. This festival, dedicated to the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha, showcases a blend of traditional rituals and activities that have been meticulously preserved and passed down through generations. The prior traditions and activities associated with the Kandy Esala Perahera provide a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and religious fervor that characterize this spectacular event.
Historical Background and Significance
The Kandy Esala Perahera traces its origins back to the 4th century when the Sacred Tooth Relic was brought to Sri Lanka from India. The relic, believed to have mystical powers, became an object of veneration and a symbol of sovereignty. The festival, held in the lunar month of Esala (July/August), is intended to invoke the blessings of the deities for bountiful rains and prosperity.
Kap Situveema (Planting the Sacred Poles)
The festival begins with the Kap Situveema ceremony, where sacred poles (Kap) are planted in the precincts of the four Devales (temples) dedicated to the guardian deities: Natha, Vishnu, Kataragama, and Pattini. This ritual, performed by the custodians of the Devales, signifies the official commencement of the Perahera. The planting of the Kap is accompanied by traditional chants and offerings, invoking divine protection and blessings for the festival.
Kumbal Perahera
Following the Kap Situveema, the Kumbal Perahera, the initial procession, takes place over five nights. This procession is relatively modest, serving as a preparatory phase for the grander Randoli Perahera. During the Kumbal Perahera, devotees carry replicas of the Sacred Tooth Relic casket, accompanied by drummers, dancers, and elephants adorned in traditional attire. This procession helps to build anticipation and sets the stage for the subsequent festivities.
Devale Peraheras
Each of the four Devales conducts its own Perahera, paying homage to the respective guardian deities. These Devale Peraheras are marked by distinctive rituals and ceremonies, reflecting the unique traditions associated with each deity. For instance, the Vishnu Devale Perahera features sword bearers and dancers performing intricate routines, while the Kataragama Devale Perahera includes fire dances and other vibrant displays.
Randoli Perahera
The climax of the Kandy Esala Perahera is the Randoli Perahera, which takes place over five nights following the Kumbal Perahera. This grand procession is a dazzling spectacle, featuring richly decorated elephants, traditional dancers, drummers, and torchbearers. The highlight of the Randoli Perahera is the majestic Maligawa Tusker, an ornately adorned elephant carrying the golden casket containing a replica of the Sacred Tooth Relic. The procession winds its way through the streets of Kandy, drawing large crowds of devotees and tourists.
Rituals and Offerings
Throughout the Kandy Esala Perahera, various rituals and offerings are performed to honor the Sacred Tooth Relic and the guardian deities. These include the offering of fruits, flowers, and incense, as well as the recitation of sacred chants and prayers. The rituals are conducted by the custodians of the Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic) and the Devales, ensuring that the spiritual essence of the festival is maintained.
Diya Kepeema (Water Cutting Ceremony)
The concluding ritual of the Kandy Esala Perahera is the Diya Kepeema ceremony, held at the Mahaweli River. During this ceremony, priests wade into the river and symbolically cut the water with a sword, signifying the end of the festival and the purification of the participants. This ritual is believed to appease the gods and ensure favorable conditions for the coming year.
Conclusion
The Kandy Esala Perahera is a magnificent celebration that embodies the spiritual and cultural heritage of Sri Lanka. The prior traditions and activities, from the Kap Situveema to the Diya Kepeema, reflect a deep reverence for the Sacred Tooth Relic and the guardian deities. Through meticulous preservation and enthusiastic participation, these rituals continue to thrive, drawing devotees and visitors from around the world to witness this unparalleled spectacle of devotion and cultural splendor.
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