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The Hanguranketha Esala Perahera is one of the most significant religious and cultural events in Sri Lanka, celebrated annually in the town of Hanguranketha, a place with deep historical and religious roots. The Esala Perahera is part of the broader Esala festival, which commemorates sacred events in Buddhist history, including the arrival of the Buddha’s relics to Sri Lanka. The Hanguranketha Esala Perahera is a grand procession that brings together devotees, dancers, drummers, elephants, and traditional performers in a vibrant spectacle of devotion and culture.
Historical Significance
Hanguranketha holds a special place in Sri Lankan history due to its connection to the Kandyan kingdom. It served as a royal refuge for the Kandyan kings during times of war. King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe, the last king of Kandy, sought shelter in Hanguranketha during his struggles with British colonial forces. The town is home to several historically significant temples, including the Hanguranketha Raja Maha Viharaya, which is believed to have connections with the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha.
The Esala Perahera in Hanguranketha is closely linked to the Sacred Tooth Relic, as it mirrors the grand Kandy Esala Perahera, which pays homage to the relic. The Perahera tradition in Hanguranketha can be traced back to centuries, when the kings of Kandy made offerings and organized processions in honor of the Tooth Relic and other sacred relics housed in temples in the area.
Rituals and Preparation
The Hanguranketha Esala Perahera is marked by a series of traditional rituals that begin well in advance of the actual procession. The Kap Situweema is one of the key initial rituals, where a ceremonial pole is planted as an offering to the gods, marking the beginning of the festivities. This ritual symbolizes the invitation to the gods to watch over the proceedings and protect the participants.
Once the preparatory rituals are completed, the Perahera begins. The procession is organized around the carrying of sacred relics from local temples through the streets of Hanguranketha. Traditional dancers, drummers, fire performers, and elaborately adorned elephants take part in the Perahera, adding to its splendor. The Nilames (chief lay custodians of the temples) lead the procession, dressed in traditional attire.
Cultural Elements
The Perahera is a showcase of Sri Lankan cultural traditions. The rhythmic beats of the drummers and the intricate footwork of the dancers are key highlights. The performances are deeply rooted in the Kandyan dance tradition, which is one of the oldest and most revered forms of traditional dance in Sri Lanka. The elephants in the procession, often adorned with vibrant, colorful garments and illuminated with lights, are another iconic feature.
The whip crackers who lead the Perahera symbolize the clearing of the path for the procession, while the torch bearers provide light and protection. Each segment of the Perahera has its own cultural and religious significance, creating a rich tapestry of tradition, art, and devotion.
Devotional Aspect
For Buddhists, the Hanguranketha Esala Perahera is more than just a cultural festival; it is an expression of deep religious devotion. The carrying of the sacred relics is seen as an act of merit, believed to bring blessings to both participants and observers. The Perahera also reinforces the strong connection between the Buddhist faith and the Sri Lankan monarchy, with many of the rituals having royal origins.
Conclusion
The Hanguranketha Esala Perahera is a festival that preserves Sri Lanka’s rich religious, historical, and cultural heritage. It is a symbol of devotion, unity, and tradition, drawing thousands of participants and onlookers each year. The festival not only provides an opportunity for Buddhists to reaffirm their faith but also showcases the deep-rooted customs and artistic traditions that have been passed down through generations.
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