Sinhala And Hindu New Year, Sri Lanka
About Sinhala And Hindu New Year
Various countries around the globe have distinct ways of celebrating their new year. In Sri Lanka, both the Sinhalese and Hindus welcome their new year, known as “Aluth Awurudu”, in mid‐April annually. This festival marks the end of the harvest season and the beginning of the solar New Year. This celebration holds immense importance for both Sinhala Buddhists and Tamil Hindus, who make up the majority of Sri Lanka's population. It's a time for families to come together, renew relationships, and start the year afresh. The festival also symbolizes the harmony between humans and embodies the traditional and cultural values of the nation, making it a unique festivity not found elsewhere in the world.
The Sinhala and Hindu New Year usually falls on April 13th or 14th, coinciding with the sun's movement from the Meena Rashiya (Pisces) to the Mesha Rashiya (Aries). However, the exact dates and auspicious times for various rituals are determined by astrologers based on astrological calculations. This festive period is a time of prosperity. In the days leading up to the New Year, Sri Lankan homes buzz with lots of activity. Homes are cleaned and often newly painted. New clothes are purchased, and traditional sweets like Kavum (oil cakes), Aluwa (diamond shaped sweet made from rice flour and treacle) and Kokis (crispy sweet made from rice flour and coconut milk) are prepared.
Key rituals for celebrating the New Year, which begins with the “Nonagathe” (neutral period), is determined by astrologers. During this time, all work ceases, and people engage in religious activities. The New Year begins with the lighting of the hearth at an auspicious time, usually done by the lady of the house. Boiling milk is the next ritual. A pot of milk is boiled until it overflows, symbolizing prosperity and abundance for the coming new year. The next one is having the first meal, typically consisting of milk rice and traditional sweets. Usually all family members gather at their parents' home to share the first meal of the New Year. After the meals, the first financial transaction of the year is done, often between family members, to ensure financial prosperity. This ritual is called “Ganu Denu” (money exchange). After major rituals are performed, families visit relatives and friends, exchange gifts and partake in festive meals.
During the New Year period, most businesses and public services are closed, which usually lasts about a week. However, this downtime creates a festive atmosphere throughout the island, with streets decorated and people dressed in their finest traditional attire. While the New Year is primarily a family‐oriented festival, there are also public celebrations to enjoy. Youth clubs in every major city or village organize “Avurudu Uthsawa”, New Year festivals featuring competitive events showcasing traditional sports, games, music, and dance performances. For travelers in Sri Lanka during this period, many hotels and resorts offer special New Year packages that include traditional meals and cultural programs. Some communities also welcome visitors to join in their celebrations, providing a wonderful opportunity to experience authentic Sri Lankan hospitality.
