Celebrating Awurudu

Ever since its prime, dating back to the splendorous reigns of kings and queens, Sri Lanka has been an agriculturally dependent country. Undoubtedly, the lifestyle of Sri Lankans was interwoven with the nature they engaged in, and consequently, the beautiful traditions that were passed down revolved around nature's elements as well.

The hallmark of Sinhalese traditions and culture is the celebration of the new lunar year that happens in April. While being an ideal example for the above, this signifies the end of the harvest season and the commencement of the monsoon season. Ironically, as the sun sets on a new journey from Pisces to Aries, flowers bloom out among the lush green leaves of trees, and rich and juicy fruits are in abundance. The cuchoo bird sings merrily on every corner of a village. Consequently, as the farmer sets himself up for another harvest cycle, his family joins him and brightens up their surroundings with new vibes too.

The dawn of the new year begins with the preparation of a pot of milk rice on a freshly built hearth. Milkrice is the universal symbol of prosperity for Sri Lankans. A range of sweetmeats are also prepared to complement this dish. The freshly prepared sweetmeats, along with the steamy milk rice, are elegantly arranged around a lighted oil lamp. Families would gather together and enjoy these delicacies, thus bringing unity and harmony to the household. People would exchange money at an auspicious time, marking the first exchange of commodities for the new year. Children would pay their respects to elders by offering a sheaf of betel leaves and worshipping them. Following this,families would visit their neighbours and relatives, strengthening the bonds and forming new ones. They would get together and play various "avurudu" games among the many smiles and laughter. It was traditionally performed to establish new connections among the youth those who are bound to take up  the harvesting procedures from their parents.

As joyful as the day sounds, it is evident how “Avurudu” is filled with new and memorable moments that will last an entire year.

The most significant aspect of these celebrations is the performance of traditions at auspicious times. These auspicious times are decided by astrologers and are based on the planetary motions. One may doubt its reliability and truthfulness and wonder if following these traditions would actually work. But on the brighter side, we are bound to perform a series of age-old traditions that would remind us of our roots and the history we come from. On the other hand, it brings an entire day of joy and happiness that can be shared across neighbourhoods.

So in conclusion, let's make it a note to continue these traditions and pass them onto our brothers and sisters and the future generations with the hope of protecting the unity among all Sri Lankans. Happy new year!