Mal Perahera (Flower Procession) in Colombo Sri Lanka

 

I thought this procession was practice for the big Navam Maha Perahera since they did it all through the week. It was actually Mal Perahera. This was a unique sight to unexpectably stumble upon while walking home from work.

The traffic was allowed next to these smaller processions which continued every evening this week. These processions ended up being quite a bit smaller than the extensive nighttime Navam Maha Perahera, which shutdown the streets near us with larger crowds of spectators. For example, there were 3 elephants instead of the dozen or so in the larger Navam Maha Perahera.

From Google:

The Mal Perahera (Flower Procession) is a traditional, festive parade, most notably held at the Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo, leading up to the annual Navam Perahera. It features children and devotees participating in a colorful procession, usually held in February, offering flowers, music, and dance to honor the Buddha. 

• Significance: The Mal Perahera serves as a preliminary, joyful procession to the main, more solemn Navam Maha Perahera. It often includes, or is closely associated with, segments like "Devadutha".
• Context: It is part of the cultural and religious activities of the Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo.
• Timing: While the Navam Perahera itself is in late January or February, the preceding, smaller processions or flower-offering events (like the Mal Perahera) can take place over several days leading up to it, often in the early evening.
• Participation: The procession is marked by the participation of students and devotees. 

I walked ahead down the street and watched it again.