The 2025 Annual Esala Perahera of the Yudaganawa Raja Maha Viharaya in Buttala concluded its street possession yesterday (19).
The final Randoli Perahera commenced its street procession with the participation of Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya. Following the enshrinement of the Sacred Relic Casket atop the ceremonial tusker of Wasana, Monaragala District Secretary Mr. Pasan Rathnayake presented the official declaration certifying the successful conduct of this year’s Yudaganawa Esala Perahera to the Chief Sanghanayake of Uva Wellassa and Chief Incumbent of Yudaganawa Raja Maha Viharaya, Venerable Galtemwatte Nandaratana Nayake Thero.
Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya stated:
Yudaganawa Raja Maha Viharaya is a place with archaeological and historical significance.
The annual Perahera festival plays a significant role in preserving the ancient glory and cultural heritage of Uva Wellassa and in creating awareness of its value among people around the world.
According to Historical chronicles, ancient kings of Mahanaga, Kavantissa, Dutugemunu, Saddhatissa, Parakramabahu the Great, Vijayabahu the Great, Nissankamalla, and Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe had contributed to the development of this sacred site.
The immense strength and blessings that arose from this sacred site during the past unification of the country are especially significant. The historic Stupa here is testimony to that legacy. This is why the Yudaganawa Annual Esala Perahera continues to draw wide attention.
Finally, I extend my gratitude to the Chief Sanghanayake of Uva Wellassa and Chief Incumbent of Yudaganawa Raja Maha Viharaya, Venerable Galtemwatte Nandaratana Nayake Thero, and the entire organizing committee for their dedication in holding this year’s Perahera with featuring the cultural events of Upcountry, Lowcountry, and Sabaragamuwa traditional dances and presentation of majestic elephants.
The event was graced by the presence of Maha Sangha led by the Chief Sanghanayake of the Ratnapura region under the Asgiri Vihara, Most Venerable Wathurakumbure Dhammarathana Nayake Thero, as well as Members of Parliament, government officials, and a large number of devotees and participants.
Prime Minister’s Media Division