By M.K. Nandasena   

 The fourth day night procession in Kataragama Maha Devala Esala festival took place on Thursday (22) and the Veddah Community obstructed the procession that set off the main Wahalkada entrance of the Maha Devala performing an ancient tradition.

 
 It is said that this tradition is performed in memory of the deity’s visit to Valliamma, who had been cared for by the Veddah community, which was obstructed by the Veddahs.   

 The sixth day procession will take place tonight with Basnayake Nilame Dishan Rajapakse dressed in his official costumes marching in the procession for the first day in the festival.   

 It is of significance that several age old traditions would be performed today, prior to the procession.   
 The Basnayake Nilame would hold an alms giving at his traditional residence to the Mahasangha including Chief Incumbent of the Kirivehera temple and receive their blessings to march in the procession.   

 The ancient front roof of the Maha Devala would be thatched with branches of trees brought by elephants from the nearby jungles.   

 Another significant ritual that would be performed today is the exposition of the pair of tusks of King Dutugemunu’s royal tusker “Kadola” in front of the Maha Devala. The exposition would last till July 03.   
 The night procession that leaves the Maha Devala ground will proceed along the Outer Street to Valliamma Devala and return through the main street after performing rituals.   

 About 30 dancing groups of the National Youth Services Council and several low country, upcountry and Sabaragamuwa dancing groups will participate.   

 The seventh day night procession will take place tomorrow (25) .