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Walli yak Mangalaya – By L.B.Senaratne (The above photograph removed over forty years ago was the original ‘Walli Yak’ mask which was  a hereditary mask of the dancer.  After he died  the son took over, he is alleged to  have  sold the mask. It is believed that this mask is now in a European country, but safe and sound ) Who said that the Kandy Esala ritual concludes with the ” Day Perahera ” or procession. A ritual is enacted to ward off the evil eye of the Nilames, dancers, drummers and above all the elephants who paaded the streets of Kandy causing no harm to anyone. Perhpahs this is the only ritual where people and animals mingle together without harm.  The ritual enacefd  was once a a secret  ritual but now it is followed by devotees  that this ritual brings them protection. The ritual is  enacted at Sri Maha Vishnu Devale or the abode of God Vishnu.. ...