Kandy Esala Perahera Kumbal Perahera: whip-crackers, torchbearers, and regional devalayas?

The Kandy Esala Perahera spans ten nights, beginning with the Kumbal Perahera followed by the Randoli Perahera. The grand procession follows a precise traditional order. Whip-crackers lead the parade, clearing the route with supersonic acoustic snaps, followed by torchbearers carrying flaming coconut husk baskets (Gini Sisila). Next come traditional flag-bearers, the Peramuna Rala riding an elephant carrying royal temple decrees, and Kandyan dancers and drummers. The core procession includes the temple contingents of the four guardian devalayas (Natha, Vishnu, Kataragama, and Pattini) preceding the majestic Maligawa Tusker carrying the sacred relic casket.