Karanduwa goes on traditional round

By L.B. Seneratne

Another ritual is performed after the final night parade of the Kandy Esala Perahera. After the Perahera returns to the Sri Dalada Maligawa, another ritual takes place where the Golden Karanduwa is taken to the Adahana Maluwa Vihare where it is deposited for the night.

The Adahana Maluwa Vihare is an old building with Indian architecture and is situated opposite the entrance to Trinity College. Tradition states that the Adahana Maluwa was the cremation site of the ancient Kings of Kandy and the Vihare built where the ashes of Queen Somawathie were deposited. After it is lodged for the night guarded by the most junior Basnayake Nilame and the Police, the Golden Karanduwa is taken out again for the Day Perahera.

The Viharage	The tusker on ‘pavada’ under a canopy.	The Diyawadana Nilame placing the Karanduwa on the tusker.
	The Mahanayake of Asgiriya, to whom this Vihare belongs by virtue of his office, examines the seal of the Karanduwa.