Janaraja Carries Sacred Casket in Kandy Esala Perahera After 25 Years

Elephant Janaraja, also known as Arittha, was given the rare honour of carrying the casket of the Sacred Tooth Relic during the second Kumbal Perahera of the historic Kandy Esala Perahera yesterday (19), marking his return to this sacred duty after 25 years.

The appearance of Janaraja carrying the sacred casket became a significant highlight of the procession, drawing attention to the majestic tusker and his long association with the annual religious pageant.

Janaraja was presented to the Sri Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic) by J.R. Jayewardene, Sri Lanka’s first Executive President.

The elephant was named “Janaraja” to commemorate Sri Lanka becoming a republic.

His return to the role after a quarter of a century adds a special significance to this year’s Kandy Esala Perahera, one of Sri Lanka’s most revered cultural and religious traditions.