Kandy Esala Perahara
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Kandy Esala Perahara
The Kandy Esala Perahara is a grand cultural festival and procession that takes place annually in the city of Kandy, Sri Lanka. It is one of the oldest and most significant cultural events in the country, dating back to the 3rd century BC.
The festival is held in honor of the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha, which is enshrined at the Sri Dalada Maligawa temple in Kandy. The procession features elaborately decorated elephants, drummers, dancers, and other performers who march through the streets of Kandy for 10 consecutive nights.
The procession is led by the Temple of the Tooth Relic's tusker elephant, who carries the Sacred Tooth Relic in a special casket on its back. The procession also includes groups of drummers, dancers, fire-eaters, acrobats, and flag-bearers who perform traditional Sri Lankan dances and music.
The Kandy Esala Perahara is a fascinating showcase of Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage and traditions. The event attracts thousands of visitors from around the world who come to witness the colorful spectacle and experience the unique cultural ambiance of Sri Lanka.
In addition to the procession, the festival also features various cultural events, including traditional dance performances, musical concerts, and other cultural exhibitions. The festival culminates in the water cutting ceremony, where the elephant carrying the Sacred Tooth Relic walks through a pool of water, symbolizing the cleansing of sins and impurities.
Overall, the Kandy Esala Perahara is a must-see event for anyone visiting Sri Lanka who wants to experience the country's rich cultural heritage and traditions. It is a mesmerizing and unforgettable spectacle that is sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors.