Start of the 1st Randoli Perahera – Diyawadana Nilame Nilanga Dela Bandara Leads the Procession with Indiraja Tusker Kandy, Sri Lanka

📰 Start of the 1st Randoli Perahera – Diyawadana Nilame Nilanga Dela Bandara Leads the Procession with Indiraja Tusker

Kandy, Sri Lanka – 4 August 2025
The 1st Randoli Perahera of the 2025 Dalada Esala Perahera commenced with immense grandeur. Diyawadana Nilame Nilanga Dela Bandara led the procession, which featured the majestic Indiraja Tusker carrying the Sacred Tooth Relic. This iconic tusker, beautifully adorned with ceremonial attire, is a central figure in the Esala Perahera. The procession was a spectacular display of culture, with illuminated elephants, traditional dancers, drummers, and vibrant performances filling the streets of Kandy.

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🔹 What is the Randoli Perahera?

The Randoli Perahera is the most elaborate and final phase of the Dalada Esala Perahera. It takes place over five nights (4th – 8th August 2025) and is marked by larger, more elaborate processions compared to the Kumbal Perahera. The highlight of the Randoli Perahera is the royal procession, where the Sacred Tooth Relic is carried by tuskers like Indiraja, accompanied by traditional dancers, drummers, and fire dancers. This phase is a celebration of Sri Lanka's royal and cultural heritage, with spectacular costumes, ornate elephant decorations, and sacred rituals. Thousands of spectators from around the world gather to witness the grandeur and devotion of the festival.