Since the majority of the people on these lands were farmers, beginning a new cycle after the major harvest called "Maha" made perfect sense. It is time to celebrate and demonstrate appreciation for the gods. Rituals include bathing on the last day of the old year and observing the moon during the last night before the new year begins. In temples, a drum beat (Hewisi) can be heard at all times. People flock to temples to receive blessings from the monks. Children offer betel to parents and elders as a sign of gratitude and to receive blessings in return. On this day, you can taste some traditional local pastries.

Sri Lankan New Year is a joyful festival celebrated to ensure a good harvest and to bring prosperity and happiness to the country. Sinhala Buddhists call it Aluth Avurudu, while Tamil Hindus name it Puthandu. The date of the Sinhala & Tamil New Year is determined by astrologists.

Nonagathaya

The time slot between the ending of the Old Year and the dawning of the New Year which is referred to as the “Nonagathe or Nonagathaya” is a neutral time. According to Sinhalese beliefs, this time is used to observe and perform religious ceremonies. People are seen heading to their respective temples clad in white apparel which is always a pleasant sight. Buddhists are also encouraged to refrain from their day-to-day activities and seek blessings from their priests/monks.

Welcoming the New Year

Preparations for the New Year are done well in advance over here in Sri Lanka. From cleaning and repainting their households to buying new clothes for family members and preparing traditional sweetmeats, the chores are endless. The purchase of a new clay pot is also considered to be an important tradition. When the Auspicious time arrives, the New Year is welcomed with the lighting of the hearth and boiling of fresh milk in the newly purchased clay pot which is a symbol of prosperity. The spilling of the milk from all sides of the pot is considered to bring good luck to the entire family. The milk rice is prepared thereafter and the rest of the sweets are served among the family and then distributed among neighbours as well. This simple gesture symbolizes unity amongst all with no boundaries. Money and business transactions are carried out during this specified time seeking blessings for success.

Other Traditions

The auspicious time is also when many commence their work with the determination to do better and reap more during the New Year. From farmers to school children, many are seen participating in their routine work. Another tradition that has been passed over centuries in Sri Lanka is paying homage to elders. A sheaf of betel leaves is presented to all elders in the family while the young ones seek their blessings for the future.

In between all these rituals, a special ceremony is held to anoint oil which is usually conducted by the oldest family member. This is practised in their respective temples as well where the prelate is seen carrying out the tradition which symbolizes good health. Auspicious times are provided in the “Palapala Litha” where there is also a time to leave for jobs. Many people head towards their hometowns during the New Year Holidays and head back to their workplaces with the hope of doing better in the coming year.

Many villages, suburb localities and even hotels, resorts and guest houses celebrate these New Year Festivities in a simple or grand manner. Patrons organize fun-filled activities which include the beating drums and various fun games such as tug-of-war and pillow fighting etc., which bring so much joy to all who are gathered to take part and even to cheer. Meals are always served and people are seen enjoying these festivities, cast and creed aside.