President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has declared that discussions about discontinuing the Kandy Esala Perahera should have no place in political discourse, emphasizing the need to protect cultural heritage from political agendas.

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake stated that debates regarding the cessation of the Perahera festival must never again feature in the country's political arena. Speaking during a ceremony where he received the Esala Perahera scroll from the Diyawadana Nilame at the President's House in Kandy on Thursday, the President underscored the historical significance of the ancient tradition and its deep connection to the monarchy and the Sacred Tooth Relic.

The President emphasized that Sri Lanka's cultural heritage should not be manipulated to serve political interests or personal disputes. He expressed concern about the exploitation of such traditions, stressing that the historical bond between the institution of the monarchy, the Sacred Tooth Relic, and the nation's cultural legacy must remain above political contestation. The ceremony marked the formal conclusion of the 2024 Kandy Esala Maha Perahera, conducted in accordance with age-old customs by the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and associated devalayas.

During the event, the President acknowledged contributions from religious leaders, temple officials, government administrators, and participants who facilitated the successful execution of the festival. He presented financial assistance to the Pitisara Devalayas and recognized participating artists with awards and gifts. The President also received the first copy of a newly compiled cultural documentation titled 'Poojaneya Dalada Sanskruthiya' from the Central Province Department of Cultural Affairs.

Broader to his remarks on cultural preservation, the President advocated for a national cultural revival supported by state resources while maintaining traditional artistic practices. He called for societal renewal grounded in humanistic values and historical continuity, arguing that protecting the country's cultural heritage requires addressing contemporary social challenges, particularly the drug menace. The President framed Perahera festivals nationwide as essential components in building the civilized society the nation seeks to develop.