All proceeds from this event will be dedicated to the advancement and improvement of MK Vihara
Celebrate Sri Lankan Traditions
Experience vibrant cultural performances, rituals, and festive games, embracing the rich heritage of the Sinhala and Tamil New Year.
Enjoy Authentic Food & Festivities
Savor delicious Sri Lankan cuisine while taking part in exciting Avurudu games, music, and dance.
Connect with Family & Community
Strengthen bonds with loved ones and celebrate together in a joyful, welcoming atmosphere.
What is Sri Lankan New Year (Aluth Avurudu)
Sri Lankan New Year, also known as Aluth Avurudu in Sinhala and Puthandu in Tamil, is one of the most significant cultural celebrations in Sri Lanka. It marks the beginning of the new year according to the traditional Sinhala and Tamil calendar and is deeply rooted in astrology and tradition.
When is it Celebrated?
The Sri Lankan New Year usually falls on the 13th or 14th of April each year. Unlike the Gregorian calendar’s New Year, which begins at midnight, Aluth Avurudu is celebrated at a precise astrologically determined time, marking the transition of the sun from Pisces (Meena Rashi) to Aries (Mesha Rashi).
Significance of the New Year
The festival is more than just a cultural event; it is a time of renewal, family reunions, and fostering good relationships. It represents the end of the harvest season and is celebrated by both Sinhalese and Tamil communities, promoting unity and harmony across Sri Lanka.
Traditions and Customs
The Sri Lankan New Year is marked by numerous customs and traditions that have been passed down through generations. Some of the most important traditions include:
1. Nonagathaya (Neutral Period)
Nonagathaya, also known as the Neutral Period, is a specific time segment recognised in Sri Lankan astrology and traditional calendars as inauspicious for beginning important activities. This period typically occurs daily and is considered a time when planetary influences are neutral or inactive, meaning that actions initiated during this time may not bring fruitful results.
2. Lighting the Hearth
A significant ritual involves lighting the hearth at an auspicious time to prepare the first meal of the new year, which usually includes traditional milk rice (Kiribath).
3. First Meal of the New Year
Families gather to enjoy a festive meal, which includes sweetmeats like Kavum (oil cakes), Kokis (crispy fried treats), and Athirasa (sweet dumplings).
4. New Year Games and Activities
Traditional games such as Kotta Pora (pillow fights), Kana Mutti (pot-breaking), and Elle (a local version of baseball) are played in villages across the country.
5. Giving and Receiving Gifts
Exchanging gifts and money among family members and friends is a common practice to symbolize prosperity and goodwill.
6. Visiting Relatives and Neighbours
The New Year is a time for strengthening social bonds. People visit relatives and friends to exchange greetings and enjoy festive meals together.
7. New Year Auspicious Times (Nakath)
Every aspect of the New Year celebrations is performed at astrologically determined times, from cooking the first meal to starting work in the new year.
Foods of the Sri Lankan New Year
Food plays a vital role in the celebrations. Some of the most popular traditional dishes prepared during the Sri Lankan New Year include:
Kiribath (Milk Rice) – A staple dish made from rice and coconut milk.
Kavum (Oil Cakes) – A sweet treat made with rice flour and treacle, deep-fried to perfection.
Kokis – A crispy, flower-shaped snack made from rice flour and coconut milk.
Mung Kavum – A sweet made from green gram flour and treacle.
Welithalapa – A jaggery-based sweet with a coconut and rice flour mixture.
Why it is important?
Cultural Significance
The Sri Lankan New Year reflects the country’s rich heritage and agricultural lifestyle.
Family and Values
It promotes family unity, mutual respect, and togetherness among communities.
Importance for Children
Children receive new clothes, blessings and learn about the culture from elders during the festival.
Event Agenda
9.00 AM : Event Registration & Avurudu Breakfast
10.00 AM : Starting of Field Games
Games for adults
Kotta poraya (Pillow fight)
Kamba Adeema (Tug of war)
Lime and Spoon Race
Andhayata kiri kaweema (Blind Yoghurt Feeding)
Muscial chairs
Papaya seeds counting
Games for Kids
Banis (ring dougnut) kama (Bun eating)
Balloon pipiraweema (Bursting balloons)
Lime and spoon race
Muscial chairs
Secret guest
Aliyata asa thabeema (Placing eye on elephant)
Soft drink game
Goni Diweema (Sack Race)
Opening Ceremony
Lightening Oil Lamp
Pooja Dance
Thuraga Wannama
New Year Song 01 and Dance with Acting ( Mashup- Koppara)
Song Performs 02 with Dance (Ra ra )
Song Performs 3 ( Jana gee)
Raffel Ticket Draw
Best Laugh/ Crying Game
Sigithi Awurudu Kumara /Kumari Under 12
Awurudu Kumara /Kumari Under 12+ Until 19
Fancy Derss Parade
Song Performance 4 (Mashup)
Parents Ladies Performance
Performance by the Old Pupils of Dhamma School
Parents Gents Performance
Sri Lankan Heritage Performance
Prize Giving
Book your FREE tickets now for a chance to win a raffle prize!
DATE: 20th April 2025
TIME: 10.00 AM – 6.00 PM
VENUE: Roade Village Hall, Bailey Brooks Lane Roade NN7 2LS
Event is TOTALLY FREE, but booking your tickets is required due to limited space availability and health & safety measures.