KANDY:The festival of the tooth, further known as “Esala Perahera”, is a ritual that began in the bygone age of the 3rd century BC. It has been carried on to
the present time in the form of an eccentric dance accompanied by the melodious sound of the beating of drums.
The Esala Perahara is held in honour of the sacred tooth relic and also the four ‘guardian’ gods, Natha, Vishnu, Kataragama, and Goddess Pattini. This vibrant commemoration annually brings in audiences from all around the island of Sri Lanka in hopes of gaining just a glimpse of this sacred event, as it is widely believed
that the observance of the Esala Perahara may bring forth luck and good health to its viewers.
Ten days, ranging from the 21st to the 31st of August, are devoted to this auspicious custom. The very first Perahera, held on the 21st of August, is known as the ‘Kumbal Perahara’. Leading the possession, the Dalada Maligawa Perahara joins the awaiting Devala Perahara’s, bearing the sacred tooth relic placed in a casket and secured to the elephant’s ransivige. The Buddhist flag bearers clear the way, while the whip-crackers, dancers, and flaming acrobats make the procession extravagant.
Coincidentally, the elite Kandyan aristocratic families, known as the Radelas’ lived in close proximity to the temple, allowing them to witness the
Perahara from close proximity within the comfort of their homes.
Our hotel’s name, “The Radh” has been derived from the aristocratic label ‘radhalayas’ , which signifies the culture and class held within the premises. We have maintained our cultural heritage through the carvings, colours, and traditions present. The lavishness of our hotel, “The Radh,” is the perfect setting to take in the complete spectacle of this lovely event.
On August 21, the first Kubal Perahera will be held, and on August 26, the first Randoli . The word “Randoli ” refers to “Palanquins, on which the queens of the ruling kings traditionally traveled”.
The exclusive experience provided by the Radh hotel allows our guests to experience the ceremonial dances that incorporate colourful adornments that embellish both the dancers and elephants, the whip bearers and fire handlers that entice the entire gathering with the
deafening sounds of their whips cracking against the pavement, in addition to the perilous fire handlers that toss the scorching flames around with ease, all just a few feet away from them.
We at The Radh want you to perceive the thrill and excitement of the dancers, musicians, and even the elephants that take part in the arresting ceremony while feeling at home, enjoying a cup of coffee, or having a scrumptious meal or snack with us while revelling in the beauty and culture behind this occasion.
Come stay with us and admire the lively avenues in the morning while you enjoy breakfast on the veranda and experience the elephants strolling and getting attired, dancers rehearsing their routine, and infusing the environment with the Perahera mood. Make your
Perahera experience a hospitable and memorable one with us at The Radh-
:press release from the Radh
