My hometown, Kandy, is a place where colours speak louder than words. Nestled in the central hills of Sri Lanka, Kandy is a city of history and culture. It also serves as a canvas filled with shades of tradition, nature, and spirituality. Every corner of this town is alive with colours that tell stories of the past and breathe life into the present.
The first colour that comes to mind is the green of the hills and forests. Surrounded by lush mountains, Kandy enjoys a cool climate and a refreshing atmosphere. The Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, with its wide variety of flowers, trees, and orchids, adds even more shades of green, pink, and yellow to the landscape. Walking through these gardens feels like stepping into a natural masterpiece.
Another striking colour of Kandy is the golden glow of the Temple of the Tooth Relic, or Sri Dalada Maligawa. This sacred temple, with its white walls and golden roofs, symbolizes peace and devotion. In the evening, when the temple lights shine against the night sky, the entire city seems to soak in a warm spiritual glow. It is a sight that never fails to inspire awe and respect.
The Kandy Esala Perahera is perhaps the most colourful celebration in the city. The streets come alive with dancers in bright costumes, traditional drummers, fire performers, and beautifully decorated elephants dressed in sparkling garments. The vibrant reds, blues, and golds of the parade create a display that attracts visitors from all over the world. This festival reflects the cultural richness of Kandy and the pride of its people.
The blue of Kandy Lake adds yet another shade to the town’s palette. Located at the heart of the city, the lake mirrors the sky and the greenery around it, offering calmness amidst the busy streets. Walking along its edges, one can see nature and city life come together in harmony.
For me, the colours of Kandy are not just visual experiences; they are emotions. The green brings peace, the gold brings faith, and the red and blue of the festivals bring joy, while the calm waters encourage reflection. Together, they paint a picture of home that is unique and unforgettable.
In every season and every celebration, Kandy shows that colours are more than beauty. They are the essence of identity. My hometown, with all its shades, remains a living painting that I am proud to call mine.（Charuka Ekanayake）
