Kandy Esala Perahera begins with traditional Kap planting ceremony

The annual Kandy Esala Perahera has officially commenced with the traditional Kap planting ceremony performed at the Sri Dalada Maligawa and the four principal devales: Natha, Vishnu, Pattini, and Kataragama. The ritual, involving sacred poles brought from Aluthnuwara, was conducted during auspicious morning hours on August 13.

The commencement initiates a series of religious observances and processions. Internal processions at the four devales are scheduled to take place for five consecutive nights through August 17. Following this, the Kumbal Perahera street processions will begin on August 18 and continue until August 22.

The festival will culminate with the more elaborate Randoli Perahera, starting August 23 and ending with a grand final procession on August 27. The event is expected to conclude on August 28 with the Diya Kepeema ceremony and a daytime procession, followed by the traditional presentation of the Perahera epistle to the President.