Esala perahera is one of the most outstanding cultural processions in Sri Lanka. This is held in August. This traditional pageant is held to respect the Tooth Relic of Load Buddha. This is organized by the Dalada Maligawa in Kandy. The Diyawadana Nilame (Mr. NIlanga Deala Bandara) is the main character. This is held annually. There are about 1000 dancers, drummers and Nilames participate in Esala perahera.
There are many rituals and conventions are held before the Perahera. The five Devalas get together and the Perahera walks along the street at night few days. The most respectful event is the famous tusker carries the Tooth Relic casket on its body.
This procession is very colourful. The local and foreign visitors get together in towatch these attractive dancing items. The whip crackers come first to announce the Perahera is coming. There are various drummers, tom beaters, musicians and dancers follow them many cultural events are presented through out of the Perahera. The most attractive scene is the decorated Elephants walk in to Perahera.
The torch bears gives out light. The Diyawadana Nilame and many Basnayaka Nilame’s also walk in the Perahera. The Buddhist devotes take part for the Perahera with much devotion for this Perahera.
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