Grand festival in Kandy-by MAHIL WIJESINGHE Source:Sundayobserver Protected by nature by the surrounding hills, looped by the Mahaweli Ganga and blessed by natural beauty, the Kandy city which has a history of over three centuries, had gained fame due to the location of the most revered temple of the Buddhists, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. It is noted for the ancient lake at the centre and salubrious climate. Kandy has been declared a World Heritage City by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, (UNESCO). The month of August is Kandy’s moment of glory. It is the best time of the year to be in Kandy, to take on a journey of cultural discovery as the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic celebrates its annual street parade, a time of jubilation as the city comes alive with colour from August 10-20. Esala Perahera The Esala Perahera in ...

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Historical and Cultural Significance of Kandy Perahera Source : Qld Sri Lankan Newsletter – Dæhæna – July 2024 Kandy Perahera, also known as the Esala Perahera, is one of the most magnificent and revered cultural festivals in Sri Lanka. Held annually in the city of Kandy, this procession is a vivid spectacle that highlights the rich tapestry of Sri Lankan history, spirituality, and cultural heritage. Image Source : news The origins of Kandy Perahera date back to the 3rd century BCE, linked to the arrival of the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha in Sri Lanka. According to tradition, the tooth relic was brought to the island by Princess Hemamala and Prince Dantha, safeguarding it from political turmoil in India. This relic has since become one of the most venerated objects in Buddhism, symbolizing the Buddha’s presence and spiritual legacy. The Perahera itself emerged as a means to honor the relic and ...

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From Bradby to Degaldoruwa-By Uditha Devapriya Image Source:Island Source:Island The Degaldoruwa Viharaya in Gunnepanne, near Sirimalwatte and Amunugama, forms a crux of Kandyan art, culture, and society. One of the most historically significant temples in the country, it is famous for its murals. These were painted by the most renowned sittara artist of his day, Devaragampola Silvatenne, with the Nilagama family. In his book on the Ridi Vihare, Dr SinhaRaja Tammita-Delgoda writes that Silvatenne “was responsible for the most brilliant period in Kandyan art.” An unordained monk and a brilliant painter, he had earlier executed the murals at Medawala Raja Maha Viharaya, and had been commissioned the decoration of Dambulla and Ridi Viharaya. ...

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Minneriya Wewa: Unveiling the Ancient Reservoir of Sri Lanka – By Bhanuka – eLanka Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka, Minneriya Wewa stands as a testament to the island nation’s rich history and the ingenuity of its ancient civilizations. This reservoir, also known as Minneriya Tank, holds not only water but also tales of engineering prowess, cultural significance, and the harmonious coexistence of nature and human ingenuity. Historical Significance: Minneriya Wewa has a storied history dating back to the third century BC when it was built by King Mahasena. Serving as an irrigation reservoir, this artificial lake played a pivotal role in sustaining agricultural activities in the region. The complex network of tanks and canals created by ancient Sri Lankan engineers showcased a remarkable understanding of hydraulics and water management. Engineering Marvel: The sheer scale and precision of the construction of Minneriya Wewa reflect the advanced engineering skills of ...

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Festival of the Tooth – By Dr harold Gunatillake This historical procession is held annually to pay homage to the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha housed at the Sri Dalada Maligawa in Kandy. Hello Viewers, Esala perahera, or pageant, started on the 21st of August this year, as the Kumbal perahera was for 7 days and was followed by the Randoli perahera, terminated on the 30th of August. The next day was the day perahera. Kandy town was crowded with families who had come to watch this pageant. Never seen such crowds in the past. This is a true reflection of the economic stability and prosperity in the country and for people to get about freely as was many years ago, sure sign of prosperity and stability in the country. I was lucky to sit at the HNBank building in Kandy to watch the Perahera this year. One hour before ...

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Dates for Esala Perahera announced-by Chaturanga Pradeep Samarawickrama Source:Dailymirror The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy (Dalada Maligawa) today announced the official dates of the 2023 annual Esala Perahera. Accordingly, the annual Esala festival will commence on August 17 and will continue until August 31 in Kandy. The first Kumbal Perahera will parade along the streets of Kandy on August 21 and continue until August 25. The Randoli Perahera will commence on August 26 and end on August 30. The Esala festival will conclude with a water-cutting ceremony on August 30.  ...

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important pilgrimage site for Buddhists in Sri Lanka – Katharagama kirivehera – By Malsha – eLanka Katharagama Kirivehera is a Buddhist temple located in the town of Katharagama in Sri Lanka. It is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims, and some Christians. The temple is dedicated to Skanda-Murugan, the Hindu war god, who is also venerated as a Buddhist deity in Sri Lanka. The history of the temple dates back to ancient times, and it is believed to have been a place of worship for over 2,000 years. According to legend, Skanda-Murugan, who is also known as Kataragama Deviyo in Sri Lanka, appeared at this location to fulfill the wishes of his devotees. The temple complex is spread over a large area and includes several buildings and shrines. The main shrine houses a statue of Skanda-Murugan, and there are also shrines dedicated to other deities such as Ganesh, ...

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Raja Museum – tribute to an honored elephant in Asia By Arundathie Abeysinghe   Raja the Maligawa tusker or Maligawa Raja (meaning Raja of Dalada Maligawa – Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy) was the sacred casket bearer of Kandy *Esala Perahera (procession) for over 50 years as well as the sacred casket bearer in the *Randoli Perahera for 37 years. Raja was the most honored and dignified elephant in Asia during his lifetime. Raja (1913 – 1988) was globally renowned for his dignified manners during the procession. Former President J.R. Jayewardene declared Raja as a national treasure in 1986 for his valuable services to the religion (Buddhism) and culture of Sri Lanka, two years before his death at the age of 75.  Raja was respected by the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic during his lifetime as well as after his death. Taxidermy experts preserved the dead animal’s ...

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