PRELIMINARY CONFERENCE OF ‘KATARAGAMA ESALA FESTIVAL’

Kataragama ‘Esala Festival’ is the main religious and cultural annual event of Southern Province, that observed millions of devotees from all over the country. It covers, ‘Paada Yaathra’, ‘Dansala’, week long ‘Pirith’ chanting at Kirivehera Temple and ‘Devalaya Perahara’.

For the year 2024, festival will commenced on 2nd July 2024 and will be ended on 22nd July. Army shoulders some main responsibilities in all four events.

Ensuring security for the devotees walk along the road of 51 km long march through Yala jungle of ‘Paada Yaathra’ and provide basic requirement including medical facility with proper coordination of all government and NGO organizations. Provide cooking facility and ensuring the function of ‘Devalaya Dansala’ for 12 days. Provide security for ‘Devalaya Perehara’ and provide assistance for ‘Kirivehara week long Pirith’.

Coordinating conference was held at Kiriwehara co-chaired by District Secretary Monaragala, Basnayaka Nilame of Kataragama Dewalaya and GOC 12 Infantry Division. Conference commenced after observing ‘Panchasela’ given by the chief incumbent of Kiriwehera. All responsible stake holders from government institutions, Tri-Services, Police, non-government organizations and media were present.