A preliminary discussion on organising the 2026 Esala Maha Perahera of the Kollupitiya Walukarama Temple under full government coordination was held yesterday (2) at the Presidential Secretariat, chaired by Presidential Secretary Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake.
The 63rd annual Esala Maha Perahera will be held from August 2 to 7. The discussion focused on state support and the necessary preparations to ensure the successful conduct of the pageant.
The final Randoli Perahera is scheduled to take place on the night of August 7, proceeding along Walukarama Road, Galle Road, through the Kollupitiya Junction and Liberty Roundabout, before continuing along R. A. de Mel Mawatha and returning to the temple.
The meeting also reviewed the contributions of government institutions and state and private sector sponsors towards organising the event.
Chief Incumbent of Walukarama Temple and the Pancha Maha Viharas, Chief Sanghanayaka of the Colombo District and Uva Province, Ven. Maharagama Nanda Nayaka Thera, said the pageant had not been held in recent years due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the economic crisis. He added that the decision to resume the procession this year was made in view of the country’s improved situation and expressed appreciation for the support extended by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and the government.
Among those present were Co-Chief Incumbent of Walukarama Temple Ven. Udawela Kolitha Thera, Ven. Elkaduwa Nabhitha Thera, Ven. Amugoda Saddhalankara Thera, Ven. Unapana Nanda Wimala Thera of Royal College, Presidential Senior Additional Secretary Roshan Gamage, Colombo Assistant District Secretary N. S. Pathirana, officials from government institutions, representatives of sponsor organisations and senior members of the security forces. (Newswire)