Kataragama perahera

 

The Kataragama Perahera, also known as the Kataragama Esala Festival, is a significant annual event held in the sacred town of Kataragama in Sri Lanka. This multi-religious festival is celebrated primarily in honor of Kataragama Deviyo (Lord Skanda or Murugan) and draws thousands of devotees from various faiths, including Buddhists, Hindus, and even the indigenous Vedda people.

Significance

  • Hinduism: For Hindus, the festival is dedicated to Lord Murugan (Skanda), the god of war and victory.
  • Buddhism: Buddhists also participate in the festival, reflecting the syncretic nature of Sri Lankan religious practices.
  • Vedda Community: The indigenous Vedda people also consider the festival significant and participate in the rituals.

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