Kataragama Devalaya Esala Perahera from July 15 to 30

Rohan Mathes reporting from Kataragama

KATARAGAMA: The annual and traditional Ruhunu Maha Kataragama Devalaya Esala Perahera will be held from July 15 to 30, the Basnayake Nilame of the Ruhunu Maha Kataragama Devalaya Shashindra Kumara Rajapaksa said at a special press conference in Kataragama on Saturday.

The Basnayake Nilame told journalists that the most prestigious and oldest pageant in the social-cultural calendar of the country, dating back to King Dutugemunu's era, has been directly linked with the economic well-being of the region. A local population of around 15,000 are sustained by the historic perahera festival.

"The economic prosperity and well-being of the entire Kataragama region depends entirely on the success of the Kataragama Devalaya and Kiriwehera festive activities. Our investment in them will be clearly reflected by the development of the region", he said.

He appealed to the devotees flocking to Kataragama to participate in the rituals and vows, to refrain from misuse of polythene and abstain from consumption of alcoholic beverages, within the precincts of the Kataragama sacred sites, in order to avert environmental pollution and to maintain its sanctity. "We have taken steps to impose a 15 day closurs of all wine stores in the area", he added.

Rajapaksa noted that the perahera which is estimated to cost over Rs. 22 million will comprise around 80 traditional dance and drama ensembles selected from over 290, including those from the Eastern Province as well. Around 24 elephants are expected to participate.

To eliminate the usual language barriers, they will incorporate around 10 interpretors who are proficient in the Tamil language. All persons within the precincts of the perahera, are fully insured.

Plans are also under way to ensure the provision of potable water, security, sanitation and lodging requirements of the pilgrims. The finale of the perahera on July 30, could be viewed on the Internet, Kataragama.org. The SLBC Ruhunu Sevaya will give live coverage from 5 pm to to midnight from July 15 to 30, the Basnayake Nilame said.