Few sights are as closely connected with the Kandy Esala Perahera as the magnificent tuskers that take part in the procession. Walking slowly through the streets beneath the lights, surrounded by traditional dancers, drummers and thousands of spectators, these elephants have become one of the most recognisable symbols of the festival.But the story of the tuskers is not only about the grand processions seen today. It is also connected with the history of the Kandyan Kingdom, Buddhist traditions and the changing role of elephants in Sri Lankan culture.
Tuskers in the Past
Elephants have held an important place in Sri Lankan history for centuries. During the time of the Kandyan Kingdom, elephants were associated with royalty, religious ceremonies and important public occasions. Their strength, size and impressive appearance made them natural symbols of dignity and authority.As the traditions surrounding the Sacred Tooth Relic developed, elephants became an important part of religious processions. The most respected tuskers were given the honour of carrying important ceremonial objects during major events.In earlier times, elephants were trained and cared for by experienced mahouts who understood their behaviour and daily needs. Preparing an elephant for a major procession was not something that happened overnight. It required patience, regular training and a strong relationship between the animal and its handler.
The tuskers that appeared in the Perahera gradually became part of the cultural memory of the people. Some elephants became particularly famous because of their appearance, temperament and long association with the festival.
The Tuskers of the Perahera Today
streets decorated with traditional costumes and lights while dancers and drummers perform around them.The most important elephant in the procession traditionally carries the sacred casket associated with the Sacred Tooth Relic. This is considered a great honour and responsibility.One of the most remembered tuskers of recent times was Nadungamuwe Raja, who carried the sacred casket in the Kandy Esala Perahera for many years. His tall appearance and calm manner made him a familiar figure to generations of spectators. His passing in 2022 was deeply felt by many people who had grown up watching him in the procession.Other well-known tuskers have also become part of the Perahera tradition, continuing the role that elephants have played in the festival for generations.
More Than a Spectacle
For many people, the tuskers are one of the first things that come to mind when they think about the Kandy Perahera. Their presence adds a sense of grandeur to the procession, but their importance goes deeper than appearance.The elephants represent a link between the past and present. The same tradition that once formed part of royal and religious ceremonies continues to attract people from across Sri Lanka and around the world.At the same time, the participation of elephants in religious processions has also encouraged wider discussion about their welfare and the responsibilities involved in caring for them. Modern audiences are increasingly interested not only in the beauty of the tradition but also in how the animals are treated, transported, trained and cared for.This has made responsible elephant care an important part of conversations surrounding traditional processions.
A Tradition That Continues
The tuskers of the Perahera have witnessed generations of change. The city around them has changed, the crowds have grown and the festival has become known far beyond Sri Lanka. Yet the slow footsteps of the elephants remain a familiar part of the procession.For older generations, the tuskers can bring back memories of Peraheras they watched many years ago. For younger visitors, they provide a first glimpse into a tradition that has been passed down through generations.The role of the tusker in the Kandy Esala Perahera is therefore more than simply being part of a procession. It represents a connection between Sri Lanka's royal history, Buddhist traditions and the cultural celebrations of the present day.As the Perahera continues into the future, the story of its tuskers will remain an important part of the story of Kandy itself.