Gangarama Nawam Maha Perahera to be held today

The Nawam Maha Perahera of the Hunupitiya Gangarama temple acclaimed as the greatest cultural event of the Colombo city is to be held today (Poya Day) for the 43rd time. The Perahera is to commence at 7 pm and parade the streets without the participation of the public, strictly observing the health guidelines.

The Mal Perahera which precedes the final Perahera was held yesterday, completing a week of Pirith Chanting, atavisi Buddha Pooja, Bodhi Pooja and other rituals invoking the blessings for the country to be rid of the Corona Pandemic.

In accordance with the health regulations the dancing troupes would be limited, but however the participation of Elephants, Up country, low Country and the Sabaragamuwa cultural troupes would accompany the Perahera in the usual regalia.

The Perahera would group at Park road and parade through Sri Jinarathana Road, Hunupitiya Lake Road ,w.a.d. ramanayake Mawatha, Sir James Peiris Mawatha, Muttiah Road and return back through Hunupitiya Road and Ramanayake Mawatha.

The crowds would not be allowed to converge on the route of the Perahera, but they could view the Perahera on TV channels.the organizers expect that by holding the Perahera this year special blessings would be showered on the ailing Viharadhipathi of the Gangarama Temple Ven. Galaboda Sri Gnanissara Thera for his good health and also help to build national reconciliation and promotion of religious amity.

The welfare committee which is coordinating the activities of the Perahera has also planned to establish a welfare scheme to help the dancing troupes from distant places who could not participate at this year’s event owing to the Covid 19.

It is noted that this Nawam Perahera commenced in 1979 under the auspices of the Viharadhipathi of Colombo Hunupitiya Gangarama Chief Sangha Nayake of Colombo Nawa Korale Ven. Galaboda Sri Gnanissara Thera.