Janet's Journal

Wishing you a Happy New Year

Traditionally a Sinhala Buddhist and Tamil Hindu New Year, Avurudu has become a national festival celebrated by all Sri Lankans wherever they live.

“Koho, koho” is the welcome call of the Asian Koel, known here as the Koha. These birds herald the arrival of spring and the end of the harvest season.  The sun moves from Pisces into Aries and is directly above the island.

Paddy farmers give a small portion of their rice harvest which is collected and taken to a temple for blessing and is then distributed to the poor.

Astrological calculations determine all proceedings.  The ending of the old year and the beginning of the new year are several hours apart.

Cultural rituals begin soon after the start of the new year.  House cleaning and the lighting of an oil lamp are followed by the lighting of a fire over which a clay pot containing milk is placed.  The milk is allowed to boil over, symbolizing happiness and prosperity.  The remaining milk used to make kiribath (milk rice).

Families gather together to eat the Avuruda sweets, some of which are unique to Sri Lanka.  Kavum, kokis, bibikkan, athirasa, mun kavum are a few of these delights.  Made from kithul treacle, rice flour, some with coconut and then fried.

As with most festivals here firecrackers feature loudly!