All preparations have been finalized to hold the historic Yapahuwa Sri Dalada Perahera today (August 29) on a grand scale, reviving the cultural procession following a 10-year hiatus.
A special press conference announcing the resumption of the pageant was held at the Yapahuwa Rajamaha Viharaya on August 25.
Historical records indicate that royal tributes to the Sacred Tooth Relic began during the 13th century under the reign of King Buwanekabahu I in the Yapahuwa Kingdom. Although the tradition lapsed after the fall of the kingdom, it was revived in 1969 by the late Chief Sanghanayaka of Wanni Hatpattuwa, Most Ven. Kandubodagama Sri Seelananda Thero. The pageant was subsequently sustained for many years under the leadership of the late Chief Incumbent Most Ven. Meegammana Siriratana Thero.
This year’s festival commenced with the auspicious tree-planting ceremony (Kap Situvima) on August 21, conducted by the Chief Incumbent of Yapahuwa Rajamaha Viharaya, Ven. Nugaliyadde Samithananda Thero, along with Yapahuwa Basnayake Nilame Kasun Lakshitha Mapa, Central Cultural Fund Wayamba Project Manager Sajith Nuwan Wanasinghe, and the Dayaka Sabha.
Following pirith chanting and almsgiving ceremonies, the main Sri Dalada procession—featuring traditional dancers, drummers, and elephants—will parade the streets tonight at 7:00 PM.
Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Livestock Namal Karunaratne stated that local authorities, including the Mahawa Police, Pradeshiya Sabha, and local hoteliers, have coordinated efforts to ensure proper sanitation, accommodation, and security for both local and foreign visitors. The event receives organizational and financial support from the President’s Fund, the Lotteries Board, the Wayamba Provincial Council, the Mahawa Divisional Secretariat, and local residents.
