Kataragama Esala Festival concludes with water-cutting ceremony

BY M.K. Nandasena and Sumanasiri Gunatilaka

The Kataragama Esala Festival, which lasted for 16 days, concluded after the final Randoli procession on Sunday night (21), followed by the water-cutting ceremony at Jeewamali ferry on Menik Ganga in the early hours of the following morning.

The final procession proceeded to Kirivehera Rajamaha Vihara to pay tribute to the temple under the Royal proclamation of King Dutugemunu. This ritual was performed by Basnayake Nilame Dishan Gunasekara, who offered a portion of the Devala revenue to the temple.

The Chief Incumbent of Kirivehera Rajamaha Vihara and Sanghanayake of Ruhunu Magampattu, Ven. Kobawaka Dhamminda Thera, administered the religious activities.

Basnayake Nilame Dishan Gunasekara expressed gratitude to state sector organisations, including the Kataragama Divisional Secretariat, Monaragala District Secretary, National Water Supply and Drainage Board, Ceylon Electricity Board, the Police, and the Security Forces. He also thanked private sector organisations and Maha Devala staff, who were instrumental in the successful conclusion of the Perahera festival.

Monaragala District Secretary and Government Agent Pasan Ratnayake addressed the gathering. Adikaram Nilame Dayananda Adikari was present on the occasion.