What is ‘Kap Situwima’?

Kap Situwima is the foundational private ritual that officially kicks off the Esala Perahera; here, a sanctified young jackfruit tree sapling is planted inside the premises of the four Devalayas, sort of like a firm first step.

Happening just a few days before the public street parades get underway, this ceremony is carried out to invoke divine blessings, so the whole festival can move forward safely and successfully. The planted saplings work as a kind of vow to the gods, meaning the city is spiritually prepared to receive the sacred relics and also the coming, massive crowds.