Over one-hundred elephants to parade streets of Colombo
[February 25, 2002 - 12.00 GMT]

The Colombo Nawam Maha Perahera parades the streets today (25) and tomorrow (26). The pageant will wend its way from the Gangarama Viharaya in Colombo, at 7 p.m.

This is the most colourful outdoor parade in Colombo held annually. The pageant will showcase a fine display of 150 traditional rhythmic dance troupes and drummers from around the country. Over 100 gaily-decorated elephants will take part in the Perahera (procession). 

The event attracts more than a million people including foreign tourists every year.

The Perahera is held to celebrate the Navam Full Moon Poya Day. The day is historic for Buddhists because it was on such a day the Buddha elevated Arahats (saints) Moggallana and Sariputra as his two chief disciples.

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Last Updated Date: February 25, 2002  - 12.00 GMT.