The Basnayake Nilame of the Ruhunu Maha Kataragama Devalaya, Thilina Madhusankha, has announced that the sacred tusker “Wasana” will no longer participate in ordinary peraheras.

The 58-year-old tusker will be released only for major historical religious processions, such as the Kandy Esala Perahera.

The Basnayake Nilame stated that numerous requests are received for Wasana to participate in peraheras across the country, but transporting him long distances by vehicle causes considerable fatigue and distress.

He stated that the decision was taken with priority given to the health and welfare of the tusker.