Devinuwara procession to proceed with kavadi performance

The annual procession of the historic Devinuwara Sri Vishnu Maha Devala, is scheduled to take to the streets tonight (28), and it will include the Kavadi performance.

Minister of Public Security Ananda Wijepala chaired a special discussion at the Matara District Secretariat yesterday (27) to make a final decision on whether the kavadi performance would proceed, following intense public discussion in recent days.

During the meeting, the minister said that permission was granted for all kavadi dance troupes that participated last year, to take part in this year's procession.

A decision was also taken to beef up security for the procession.

Public attention intensified in recent days over alleged threats made by alleged organised criminal figure Kanjipani Imran against Devinuwara Devala Chief Custodian Thilina Madusanka, regarding the trimming of participating kavadi troupes.

Earlier, acting on intelligence reports, the Inspector General of Police recommended the cancellation of the kavadi performance of the Devinuwara Sri Vishnu Maha Devala, to the Matara District Secretary.

In response, Devinuwara Devala Chief Custodian Thilina Madusanka released a letter on social media, expressing his willingness to allow all kavadi troupes to participate in the procession.

Following yesterday's discussion, Minister Ananda Wijepala said that the annual Esala Festival kavadi performance of the historic Sri Vishnu Maha Devala in Devinuwara will proceed today, in a manner that ensures public safety.