INTRODUCTION
Every April, Sri Lanka bursts into color and joy as the island celebrates one of its most treasured cultural events — the Sinhala and Tamil New Year. Known as Aluth Avurudda in Sinhala and Puththandu in Tamil. This vibrant festival marks the sun’s transition from zodiac sign of Meena (Pisces) to Mesha (Aries), symbolizing renewal and prosperity. Key moments — such as the end of the old year, the start of the new year, filled with hope, unity, and auspicious times for activities — are announced in advance according to astrology. this vibrant festival observed annually in April (Generally in between second week to third week of the month).
More than just a festival, the Sinhala and Tamil New Year is a time for family reunions, rituals, delicious food, and community celebration, reflecting the island’s harmony between its Sinhala and Tamil communities. It’s a season that truly showcases the heart and soul of Sri Lanka.
If you’re planning to visit during the New Year season (April 13–14), keep in mind that many shops and businesses close for several days as families celebrate together. It’s the perfect time to stay in a village guesthouse, join a local family celebration, or simply enjoy the quiet, festive atmosphere of Sri Lanka’s countryside.
A TIME GUIDED BY THE STARS AND TRADITIONS
Unlike Western New Year celebrations that happen at midnight, the Sri Lankan New Year follows astrological timings, known as nekath, to determine the most auspicious moments for each ritual. These rituals are performed with great devotion, connecting daily life with the rhythm of nature and spirituality.
AUSPICIOUS TIME ( PUNYA KALAYA / NONAGATHAYA )
During Nonagathe, all work and household chores are paused. Families visit temples or kovils to perform religious observances and seek blessings for peace and prosperity. It is a time of reflection, mindfulness, and gratitude for the year that has passed.
LIGHTING THE HEARTH AND PREPARING THE FIRST MEAL
One of the most beautiful moments of the festival is lighting the hearth at the auspicious time. Families gather around to boil milk in a new clay pot, letting it overflow as a symbol of abundance and good fortune.
THE FIRST TRANSACTION (GANU DENU) AND MEAL
The first dish prepared is kiribath (milk rice), which is shared among family members as a gesture of unity and love.
Ganu Denu, meaning “give and take,” represents the exchange of good wishes and prosperity. Elders give betel leaves and small gifts of money to the younger members of the family, blessing them for a successful year ahead.
VISITING AND SHARING
Once the rituals are complete, families visit their relatives and neighbours, exchanging plates of homemade sweetmeats. This act of sharing reinforces bonds between families and communities, spreading happiness across towns and villages
ANOINTING OIL CEREMONY WITH HERBAL OIL - HISA THEL GAMA
In another meaningful ritual, family members apply blessed herbal oil on their heads at a specific time. This is believed to bring good health, long life, and protection for the coming year.
BATHING FOR THE NEW YEARTraditionally done on an astrologically determined day to cleanse and refresh.
TRADITIONAL GAMES AND ACTIVITIES
During the New Year season, villages and towns host fun-filled games and competitions that bring everyone together, young and old alike.
Some of the most loved games include:
Kotta Pora – a pillow-fighting challenge on a log. It a fun game for all ages, fostering teamwork and joy.
Kanamutti Bindeema (Pot Breaking)– Blindfolded participants try to break a clay pot filled with water or other items.
Lissana Gaha Nageema – Climbing a greased pole for a flag or prize
Raban Gasima – rhythmic drumming by women
Onchili Pedima – swinging on a beautifully decorated swing
Board Games like Olinda Keliya – Played in homes during the holiday season.
These games are more than entertainment — they represent togetherness, teamwork, and joy, reminding everyone that happiness often lies in simple moments shared with others.
FESTIVE FOODS
The Avurudu table is a feast of traditional flavours made with coconut, rice flour, and jaggery. Some popular sweets include:
Kavum – sweet oil cakes fried to perfection
Kokis – crispy, flower-shaped treats
Aluwa – a smooth, diamond-shaped sweet made from rice flour
Bibikkan – a spiced coconut cake rich in local flavour
These delightful sweets are often prepared together by families, filling homes with warmth, laughter, and the smell of jaggery and coconut.
A FESTIVAL OF FAMILY, GRATITUDE AND NEW BEGINNINGS
The Sinhala and Tamil New Year is not just about customs or food — it is a time when the entire country slows down, and people reconnect with their roots, families, and communities. Many who live in cities travel back to their villages to celebrate with loved ones, carrying gifts and the spirit of homecoming.
At its heart, this festival celebrates peace, gratitude, and renewal. It reminds everyone to be thankful for the harvest, cherish family bonds, and begin the new year with kindness and unity.
SYMBOL OF UNITY
Although rooted in Buddhist and Hindu traditions, the Sinhala and Hindu New Year transcends religion, celebrated by people of all backgrounds across Sri Lanka. It strengthens family ties, renews friendships, and promotes community harmony.
WHY YOU SHOULD EXPERIENCE SINHALA AND TAMIL NEW YEAR IN SRI LANAK
For travellers visiting Sri Lanka in April, witnessing the Sinhala and Tamil New Year is a magical cultural experience. Streets are quiet yet filled with the scent of sweetmeats, laughter echoes from homes, and colourful decorations mark the spirit of celebration.
Participating in or observing the rituals, tasting kiribath, and watching local games will give you a deeper understanding of Sri Lanka’s traditions, spirituality, and community warmth.
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