Sinhala Hindu New Year

 

Sinhala Hindu New Year, also known as Aluth Avurudda, is a significant cultural and religious celebration in Sri Lanka. It is a time when Sri Lankan Hindus and Sinhalese come together to welcome the New Year and celebrate the season of harvest.

The celebration of Sinhala Hindu New Year usually takes place in mid-April, which is the time when the sun moves from the House of Pisces to the House of Aries. This transition, known as the Solar New Year, is considered to be an auspicious time for new beginnings, fresh starts, and new opportunities.

During the weeks leading up to the Sinhala Hindu New Year, people start preparing for the festivities. The streets are decorated with colorful lanterns, banners, and flowers, and there is a buzz of excitement in the air. Homes are cleaned and decorated, and families start preparing traditional sweets and delicacies to share with their loved ones.

On the day of Sinhala Hindu New Year, people wake up early in the morning and take part in traditional rituals and customs. The first ritual is lighting the hearth, which is believed to bring prosperity and good luck to the household. People then take a bath and wear new clothes before visiting the temple to offer prayers and seek blessings from the gods.

After the temple visit, families gather together to partake in a grand feast of traditional Sri Lankan cuisine. The meal typically includes rice, curries, sweets, and fruits, and is shared with friends and relatives. This meal is a time for bonding and strengthening family ties.

Throughout the day, people engage in various games and activities, such as traditional sports, board games, and card games. Children fly kites, and families exchange gifts and greetings.

In the evening, the festivities continue with cultural performances, including dance and music shows, and traditional dramas. Fireworks light up the sky, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Overall, Sinhala Hindu New Year is a time of joy, togetherness, and renewal. It is a celebration of tradition, culture, and community, and it brings people from different backgrounds and beliefs together in harmony