Procession brings a riot of colour

The traditional Vesak Perahera was held recently at Sri Dalada Maligawa without parading the streets in procession. However, this is not the first time a Perahera was held within the premises of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic – it had happened during JVP riots and LTTE bombings. 

The casket (golden karanduwa), brought by Venerable Thibbotuwawe Medankara Thera, was followed by Kariyakarawana Korale S.M. Karunatilaka. The procession encircled the Maligawa thrice before returning to the inner-shrine room. 

Diyawadana Nilame Pradeep Nilanga Dela blessed the devotees prior to the procession. Outsiders were not allowed to participate.