4 Dead at Sri Lanka's Tooth Relic Display

By,
Miyuru Rasoj


 

The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy, Sri Lanka, is currently hosting a historic exposition of the revered Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha, an event that has drawn extraordinary crowds and tested the limits of the city’s infrastructure and emergency services. 

This special exposition, the first in 16 years, began on April 18, 2025, and is scheduled to continue through April 27, offering devotees a rare opportunity to pay homage to one of Buddhism’s most sacred artifacts.


Massive Pilgrim Turnout

The scale of public devotion is unprecedented: over 450,000 people have already visited the temple to witness the exposition, with daily attendance figures soaring to 150,000 on the busiest days. 

Organizers expect total attendance to reach as high as two million by the end of the event. 

To accommodate the surge, temple authorities have extended viewing hours from 11:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and opened three new access routes to help manage the flow of pilgrims.


Human Cost: Deaths and Hospitalizations

The overwhelming crowds, however, have come at a significant human cost. 

4 people have tragically died while waiting in the long queues, and at least 279 have been hospitalized for various health issues, ranging from dehydration and exhaustion to injuries sustained in the dense throngs. 

Medical teams and ambulances have been on high alert throughout the event, working tirelessly to respond to emergencies.


Security and Crowd Management



Given the scale of the gathering, authorities have deployed a massive security and support operation. 

A combined force of 10,500 police officers and 6,500 military personnel has been mobilized to maintain order, ensure the safety of devotees, and assist with crowd control. 

Troops from all divisions under the Security Forces Headquarters (Central) have contributed to logistical support, including the provision of water, first aid, and guidance for the vast influx of worshippers.


A Rare and Revered Occasion

The exposition is not only a spiritual milestone but also a cultural and historical event. 

The Sacred Tooth Relic, believed to be the left canine tooth of the Lord Buddha, is venerated by Buddhists worldwide and is typically kept out of public view. 

Its display after 16 years has inspired a pilgrimage of national proportions, with devotees traveling from every corner of Sri Lanka to participate.


Community Response and Adjustments

To facilitate the event, schools in Kandy have been temporarily closed, and city infrastructure has been adapted to support the influx of visitors. 

Despite these efforts, the sheer volume of pilgrims has strained resources, prompting continued appeals for patience, hydration, and cooperation with authorities.

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