Kandy Esala Perahera will be preserved - President

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe emphasizing the significance of safeguarding the historical Kandy Esala Perahera noted that its legacy should be carried forward.

He made these comments after the Diyawadana Nilame of Sri Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic) Pradeep Nilanga Dela, handed over the Esala Perahera Scroll to President Ranil Wickremesinghe on Thursday (31).

The Scroll highlights the meticulous execution of the annual Esala Perahera at Kandy’s Sri Dalanda Maligawa (Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic), a magnificent cultural festival celebrated with great reverence for ancient traditions, said the President's Media Division.

In accordance with custom, the Diyawadana Nilame formally presented the Scroll of Memorandum to the President. As a symbolic gesture, the President offered a fruit treat to the baby elephant “Sindu”, reminiscent of the elephants that graced the procession. Continuing the tradition, a group photo was taken with the Nilames and the President.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe highlighted that the Kandy Esala Perahera was not only a religious and national celebration, but also a grand cultural festival that showcased Sri Lankan heritage to the global stage. 

Acknowledging the importance of elephant protection, the President also underscored the need to preserve and uphold our ancient customs. He called for the resolution of challenges such as acquiring tame elephants for the Perahera through constructive negotiations. Additionally, President Wickremesinghe noted that Kandy’s esteemed Esala Maha Perahera would hold a special place in a program designed to enhance progress in Sri Lanka’s tourism sector by the upcoming year.