Kataragama, Sri Lanka – The Ruhunu Maha Kataragama Devalaya has officially announced the schedule for its annual Esala Festival, a significant cultural and religious event in Sri Lanka. The planting of the Kaps, marking the commencement of festival preparations, was carried out on May 24, 2024, an auspicious date as decreed by the ancient King Dutugemunu.
The festival is set to begin 44 days later, with the first procession scheduled for July 6, 2024. The Esala Festival will feature a series of vibrant processions, culminating in the grand Water Cutting ceremony on July 22, 2024, at the Jeevamali Ferry on the Kataragama Menik River.
Schedule of Processions :
– July 6 : First Procession
– July 7 : Second Procession
– July 8 : Third Procession
– July 9 : Fourth Procession
– July 10 : Fifth Procession
Special Events :
– July 11 : Alms Giving at Basnayaka Walawwa, Renewal of the Shelter (Athupandalama) in front of the Maha Dewale, and the Basnayaka Nilamema begins walking in the procession according to ritual, followed by the Sixth Procession.
– July 18 : Fire Walking Ceremony, followed by the Thirteenth Procession.
– July 22 : The grand Water Cutting Ceremony at the Jeevamali Ferry on the Kataragama Menik River, marking the conclusion of the festival.
Daily Processions :
– July 12 : Seventh Procession
– July 13 : Eighth Procession
– July 14 : Ninth Procession
– July 15 : Tenth Procession
– July 16 : Eleventh Procession
– July 17 : Twelfth Procession
– July 19 : Fourteenth Procession
– July 20 : Fifteenth Procession
– July 21 : Final Procession
The Ruhunu Maha Kataragama Devalaya invites all devotees and tourists to partake in this historic celebration, seeking blessings from Lord Muruga. The Esala Festival not only highlights religious devotion but also showcases the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka.
May the blessings of Lord Muruga be upon all!
Ruhunu Maha Kataragama Devalaya
