Link Natural's Samahan has partnered with Sri Dalada Maligawa to launch a wellness programme providing medical support and refreshments to traditional performers participating in the annual Kandy Esala Perahera festival.
As the Kandy Esala Perahera reaches its concluding days, a dedicated health and wellness initiative has been rolled out to assist the more than 1,000 traditional performers involved in the annual celebration. The programme, titled "Samahan Arakshawe Pelahera", represents a collaboration between Link Natural's Samahan brand and the Media and Special Projects Bureau of Sri Dalada Maligawa.
Participants in the festival—including traditional dancers, drummers, torchbearers, and elephant handlers—face considerable physical demands. The performers endure extended hours of intensive activity during evening processions under hot, humid conditions while exposed to the heat from ceremonial flames lining the route. Organisers have established dedicated health and wellness stations positioned around the procession grounds where performers receive hot Samahan drinks before and after their performances.
Support mechanisms extend beyond refreshment provision. Medical personnel and volunteers from the Sri Lanka Red Cross Society have been stationed at the venue to provide health advice and basic first-aid services to performers requiring assistance. Additionally, Link Natural has supplied MuscleGuard and CrampGuard topical products designed to help performers manage muscle fatigue and the physical strain accumulated during hours of continuous movement throughout the festival.
The initiative reflects recognition of the physical toll the Perahera places on its traditional performers, who are central to maintaining this significant cultural event.
