The annual Esala Perehara of Somawathiya Rajamaha Viharaya in Polonnaruwa was held on a grand scale at the sacred Somawathiya temple premises on the Esala Full Moon Poya Day (01 August) amidst thousands of devotees.

On the directions of the General Officer Commanding, 23 Infantry Division and under the close supervision of the Commanding Officer, 9 Field Regiment of Sri Lanka Artillery, troops of 9 Field Regiment of Sri Lanka Artillery added their share to this historic event by cleaning and illuminating the road sideways where the Perahera paraded.

This historic procession is held annually to pay homage to the sacred Tooth Relic of the Lord Buddha, enshrined inside the Somawathiya pagoda. The procession consisted of many traditional and local dancers such as fire-dances, whip crackers, Kandyan dances and various other multi-ethnic dances.