In a celebration of its deep-rooted Buddhist culture, thousands of individuals gathered to partake in the Kandy Esala Perahera, a significant event also known as the Festival of the Tooth.
This annual spectacle, which takes place in the central region of Sri Lanka, pays homage to the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha housed in Kandy.
Footage shot on Tuesday in Kandy features dancers adorning the streets, elephants parading, and performers wielding shields and swords.
This festival stands as a unique symbol of Sri Lanka, showcasing an array of traditional local music, fire dances, and whip-dance performances.
Notably, the streets of the city are transformed by the presence of numerous ornate elephants which are among the most captivating aspects of the festivities.
The current year’s displays and processions commenced on August 21 and are set to enthral spectators until the 31st. Both local devotees and international tourists converge to witness this awe-inspiring event, which imbues the city of Kandy with a radiant splendour.
Housed within the confines of a palace in the city, the Sacred Tooth Relic holds a revered place as a symbolic representation of Buddha.
This relic serves as the focal point for a series of offerings, rituals, and ceremonies, making the festival not only a cultural gala but also a testament to Sri Lanka’s rich heritage.