The 2025 Annual Esala Perahera of the Yudaganawa Raja Maha Viharaya in Buttala concluded on Saturday.

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya was ppresent when the final Randoli Perahera took to the streets after the Sacred Relic Casket was placed atop the ceremonial tusker ‘Wasana’,

Monaragala District Secretary  Pasan Rathnayake presented the official declaration certifying the successful completion of this year’s Yudaganawa Esala Perahera to the Chief Sanghanayake of Uva Wellassa and Chief Incumbent of Yudaganawa Raja Maha Viharaya, Venerable Galtemwatte Nandaratana Nayake Thero.

Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister stated:

“Yudaganawa Raja Maha Viharaya is a place with archaeological and historical significance.

The annual Perahera festival plays a significant role in preserving the ancient glory and cultural heritage of Uva Wellassa and in creating awareness of its value among people around the world.

According to historical chronicles, ancient kings  Mahanaga, Kavantissa, Dutugemunu, Saddhatissa, Parakramabahu the Great, Vijayabahu the Great, Nissankamalla, and Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe had contributed to the development of this sacred site.

The immense strength and blessings that arose from this sacred site during the past unification of the country are especially significant. The historic Stupa here is testimony to that legacy. This is why the Yudaganawa Annual Esala Perahera continues to draw wide attention.

Finally, I extend my gratitude to the Chief Sanghanayake of Uva Wellassa and Chief Incumbent of Yudaganawa Raja Maha Viharaya, Venerable Galtemwatte Nandaratana Nayake Thero, and the entire organizing committee for their dedication in holding this year’s Perahera with featuring the cultural events of Upcountry, Lowcountry, and Sabaragamuwa.”

The event was graced by the presence of the Maha Sangha led by the Chief Sanghanayake of the Ratnapura region under the Asgiri Vihara, Most Venerable Wathurakumbure Dhammarathana Nayake Thero, as well as Members of Parliament, government officials, and a large number of devotees and participants.

[Prime Minister’s Media Division]