Sinhalese and Tamil New Year in Sri Lanka: A time of joy, tradition and togetherness
Veröffentlicht am August 27, 2025
Every April, people throughout Sri Lanka celebrate the Sinhalese and Tamil New Year. This time, called Avurudu, marks the end of the harvest season and the beginning of a new year. It's a joyful festival marked by traditions, food, and family time. The New Year is more than just a celebration. It's a time to reflect, show gratitude, and embrace new beginnings. Families gather, friends visit, and villages are filled with happiness and kindness.
Welcoming the New Year with Tradition
The New Year begins with a silent period known as Nonagathe. During this time, people stop working, spend time in prayer, or visit temples. This peaceful pause helps everyone prepare for a new beginning.
At the appropriate time, families light the fire and prepare the first meal of the year. This meal often includes kiribath, rice cooked in coconut milk, as well as traditional sweets such as kokis, mung kavum, aluwa, and bananas. Families share this food with each other and give it to neighbors as a sign of love and friendship.
Another custom is anointing. Older family members bless younger ones with herbal oil while wishing them health and prosperity in the coming year.
Fun and games for everyone
. After the rituals, the fun begins. Traditional New Year's games are held in villages and towns for children and adults.
Some of the most popular games are:
- Kotta Pora, in which two people play a pillow-hitting game on a tree trunk.
- Kana Mutti Bindeema, in which blindfolded players try to smash a clay pot.
- Tug of war, in which two teams pull on a rope to see who is stronger.
Climbing a slippery pole, where players try to reach the top of a slippery pole.
Other fun games include sack races, limbo contests, and chair dances.
These events are full of laughter and bring the whole community together. Music and dancing are also common, with traditional drumming and songs enhancing the festive spirit.
Keeping the Tradition Alive
Even in modern cities, Avurudu is still celebrated with care. Schools and offices host New Year programs where people wear traditional clothing, prepare special meals, and play games.
Many people travel to their hometowns to be with family and participate in ancient customs. This holiday reminds us of the importance of family, respect, and new beginnings.
A warm invitation to participate.
If you visit Sri Lanka in April, you'll see streets adorned with color, hear traditional music, and feel the warmth of the people. The Sinhalese and Tamil New Years are a beautiful time to experience the heart of Sri Lankan culture.
Whether you participate in a village festivity or simply enjoy a bite of Kiribath, this season is all about slowing down, sharing joy, and beginning the new year with love and hope.