By Ajithlal Shanthaudaya 

The Maha Perahera in Ratnapura Saman Devala Esala festival would commence today.

Basnayake Nilame Migara Jayasundara said the procession that parades the streets would be held for five days till September 10 followed by the water cutting ceremony in the early hours of September 11 in Rathambalaella river in Malwala.

The Basnayake Nilame said the water cutting ceremony would mark the end of the Esala festival this year.