Janaraja Perahera: Historic Republican Parade Returns After 36 Years
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Janaraja Perahera: Historic Republican Parade Returns After 36 Years
KANDY, SRI LANKA – 19 February 2023 – After a hiatus of 36 years, the Janaraja Perahera (“Republican Parade”) once again illuminated the streets of Kandy, reviving a rare ceremonial tradition to mark the 75th Anniversary of Sri Lanka’s Independence. The grand event was conducted under the patronage of President Ranil Wickremesinghe, who assumed office on 20 July 2022 following the resignation of Gotabaya Rajapaksa.
A Storied Past
The Janaraja Perahera traces its origins to 1753, when King Keerthi Sri Rajasinghe organized a ceremonial procession to honor Upali Maha Thera, the Buddhist monk credited with restoring the Upasampada higher ordination to Sri Lanka.
During the British colonial period, it evolved into a state parade to honor royal visitors—such as the 1870 procession for the Duke of Edinburgh, the 1875 parade for the Prince of Wales, and later occasions including Queen Elizabeth II’s visits in 1954 and 1981.
Following independence in 1948 and the declaration of the Republic in 1972, the Janaraja Perahera was staged only on exceptional state occasions, with its last appearance in 1987 under Prime Minister Ranasinghe Premadasa.
2023 Revival
The 2023 revival celebrated Sri Lanka’s 75th Independence Anniversary, organized by the Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa) in Kandy. The parade began between 6:30 and 6:45 PM from the historic Magul Maduwa courtyard, proceeding through Dalada Street, Yatinuwara Street, Kanda Street, and Raja Street, before returning to the temple precincts via King Street.
Special traffic controls were enforced from 5:00 PM, diverting vehicles away from key streets to ensure uninterrupted public viewing.
Symbolism & Highlights
In the Esala Perahera, the main tusker traditionally carries a golden casket containing the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha. In contrast, the Janaraja Perahera showcases the Sri Lankan national emblem, symbolizing the sovereignty of the Republic.
The 2023 parade’s highlight was Kandula, a majestic tusker from the Kelaniya Temple, draped in a brilliant red and gold costume and carrying the national emblem beneath a golden canopy—a striking reminder of national unity.
The streets pulsed with up-country dancers, traditional drummers, and vibrant cultural performances, reflecting the visual grandeur of the Esala Perahera but infused with a distinctly republican theme. Spectator facilities were set up along the route, drawing crowds from across the island and boosting local tourism.
Dignitaries & Organizers
The procession was attended by President Ranil Wickremesinghe, Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, senior ministers, military chiefs, diplomats, and thousands of citizens.
The event was coordinated under the guidance of Diyawadana Nilame Pradeep Nilanga Dela, the Chief Lay Custodian of the Temple of the Tooth Relic since 2005, who oversees the organization of major temple events including both the Esala and Janaraja Peraheras.
Key Facts at a Glance:
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Occasion: 75th Anniversary of Sri Lanka’s Independence
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Date: 19 February 2023
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Location: Kandy, Sri Lanka
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Presiding President: Ranil Wickremesinghe
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Main Tusker: Kandula (Kelaniya Temple)
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Distinctive Feature: National emblem instead of Sacred Tooth Relic casket
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Historical Roots: Dates back to 1753 under King Keerthi Sri Rajasinghe
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