After 35 years, the ‘Janaraja Perahera’ carrying the state emblem began its street tour of Kandy from Temple of the Tooth Relic, starting from 6.30 pm today.
In conjunction with the 75th Independence Day celebrations, this Republic Parade is being held this year at the special request of the government led by the President.
The specialty of this is to carry the state emblem instead of the sacred tooth relic and hold it as a special procession in addition to the ‘Dalada’ procession at the president’s request in case of a special event in the country.
This time, Tusker Kandula belonging to Kelaniya Rajamaha Viharaya, has been blessed to carry the State logo, which is the most unique part of this procession.
As Dela tuskers, Tusker Gemunu belonging to Mr. Rathnasiri Arangalla and Tusker Kandula belonging to Temple of the Tooth Relic, Kandy, are going next to him.
Sri Lanka has held 4 ‘Janaraja Perahera’ so far.
The First Janaraja Perahera in 1875 to mark the visit of Prince Edward, Duke of Wales to Sri Lanka, the Second Janaraja Perahera in 1954 to mark the arrival of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the Third Janaraja Perahera in 1981 to mark the second visit of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II to Sri Lanka for the opening of the Victoria Reservoir, and the Fourth Republic Parade was held on 31 December 1987 to inaugurate the Golden Canopy of the Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy.
Below is the live telecast of ‘Janaraja Perahera.’
