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by Meredyth Lewis

This year's Esala Perahara in Kandy will be an extra special celebration for the businesses of the hill capital, as a result of the improved security situation.

Enhanced security has succeeded in dispelling the heightened anxiety and fear that was paramount in the area following the bombing of the Temple of the Tooth by the LTTE in 1998.

The businesses which felt the brunt of the bombs' repercussions were those located on the Anagarika Dharmapala Mawatha. The road, closed after the incident only re-opened two weeks ago. The prolonged closure caused places such as "The Travellors Nest" and "Hotel Thilanka" an accumulation of severe debts since no visitors could reach their locations. They hope that this year's festival will mark the end of their days of struggle.

As a result, of the peace talks Kandy is anticipating an even greater influx of people into the town for celebrations. Already guesthouses and hotels are filling up with reservations for the 15th-24th July. People arriving towards the end of the festival can expect a long search for somewhere to stay.They should also expect to pay nearly triple the usual price.

However, the extra cost will be worth it. Acrobats, musicians and drummers will mesmerise the crowds. Furthermore, over one hundred magnificently clad elephants will take part in the celebrations, headed by the mighty Maligawa Tusker who will carry the golden relic casket. Talented dancers will also entertain the spectators, performing the classic Ves vance. In addition, Uddekki, Pantheru and Naiyandu performers will dazzle when they participate in the Visnu and Kataragama devale, adorned with elaborate head-dresses and breast-plates of multicoloured beads.

These celebrations and more will embrace this year's festival as an especially poignant one. Not only does it remember the religious, cultural and historical significance of the Esala Perahara but it also marks a positive step towards the future, particularly for the people of Kandy. The festival will unite the communities energy and undeniable spirit after the test by the crippling events of previous years. The last day of the festival renowned for its magnificence will be especially majestic this year, as when the Nikini Poya (full moon) rises it will be hand in hand with hope for the prosperity of the people of Kandy.

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Copyright 2001 The Associated Newspapers of Ceylon Ltd.
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