Goodwill, happiness and joy fills the hearts of all Sri Lankans during the Sinhalese and Tamil New Year. The familiar sounds of the Koha-bird, the rhythmic beats of the Avurudu drums are heard. Old customs are revived and people exchange gifts and greetings with grace and happiness .This is the ‘Aluth Avurudu’ or the New Year season. This age old Aluth Avurudda; more commonly referred to as the Sinhala and Tamil New Year is a time for joy and merriment. It occurs when the sun enters Aries (Mesha) from Pisces (Meena) in accordance with the astrological calculations every year on April 13 and 14.
This is the major festival in our country where the festive rites have to be observed at prescribed times given by the astrologers. Whatever it is, it is nothing but the spring time in Sri Lanka.
Just like last year, the Axian family celebrated the dawn of yet another New Year on the 19th of April, 2016 well after the actual “Avurudu” dates with the boiling of the milk on a makeshift hearth; followed by the all too keen indulgence of the delicious Avurudu spread prepared by their own employees. The ubiquitous plantain dished out alongside celebratory feasts of Kawum (small oil cakes), Kokis and Athiraha (Avurudu sweetmeats) made for a very satisfying meal. This was followed by an interesting series of ‘Avurudu games’ where employers and employees alike took part in to have a jolly good time.
The laughter and mirth created for a very light atmosphere that sparked among all, the start of something prosperous.
With wishes and blessings for a thriving tomorrow, the Axian family put their best foot forward and greeted yet another promising New Year!
