Sri Lanka, Aug. 3 -- Sri Lanka's centuries-old Perahera tradition is facing an unprecedented existential threat as the country's domesticated elephant population collapses to critical levels, Sri Dalada Maligawa's Diyawadana Nilame Pradeep Nilanga Dela stated.

He said the domesticated elephant population in the country is currently 93, and if new animals cannot be found, domesticated elephant reserve will drop to 25 within the next decade.

He said that under the current circumstances, Perahera festivals have to be conducted using the remaining elephants, and due to the difficulty of selection, violent, young and elderly elephants even have to be used in the processions.

The Diyawadana Nilame made these remarks while addressing 'Alimank...