Sinhala & Tamil New Year
Avurudu: The traditional New Year celebration for both Sinhala and Tamil communities, marked by cultural rituals, festive foods, and community gatherings.
Festival Overview
The Sinhala and Tamil New Year, known as "Aluth Avurudda" in Sinhala and "Puthandu" in Tamil, is one of Sri Lanka's most important cultural festivals. Unlike the Western New Year, which falls on January 1st, this traditional New Year is celebrated in mid-April (usually April 13-14) and marks the end of the harvest season and the beginning of the solar new year.
This festival is unique in that it is celebrated by both the Sinhala (predominantly Buddhist) and Tamil (predominantly Hindu) communities, making it a powerful symbol of cultural unity in Sri Lanka. The New Year begins at the astrologically determined auspicious time, and various rituals and customs are performed at specific auspicious moments throughout the celebration.
Cultural Significance
The New Year represents renewal, purification, and new beginnings. It's a time for forgiveness, strengthening family bonds, and expressing gratitude. The festival is deeply connected to agricultural cycles, as it coincides with the end of the harvest season and the beginning of the monsoon in Sri Lanka.
Celebration in Kataragama
In Kataragama, the New Year takes on special significance due to the town's multi-religious character. The Kataragama Temple complex hosts special ceremonies and rituals during this period, attracting devotees from different faiths. The celebration in Kataragama exemplifies the harmonious coexistence of different religious and cultural traditions in Sri Lanka.
Festival Schedule
Traditions & Customs
Festival Gallery
Visitor Information
Festival Dates
April 13-14, 2025 (dates may vary slightly based on astrological calculations)
Location
Celebrated throughout Sri Lanka, with special ceremonies at Kataragama Temple Complex
Participation
Visitors are welcome to observe and participate in public celebrations. Many hotels and cultural centers organize special New Year events for tourists.
What to Expect
- • Traditional games and activities in public spaces
- • Special ceremonies at temples and religious sites
- • Cultural performances and music
- • Festive foods and sweets available at markets
- • A generally festive atmosphere throughout the country
Traditional Foods
During the New Year, families prepare a table with these traditional foods and sweets. The first meal of the New Year is a significant ritual, with family members gathering to share the food together.
Cultural Tips
Photography
While photography is generally welcome during public celebrations, always ask permission before photographing individuals, especially during religious ceremonies.
Planning
Many businesses close during the New Year period, and public transportation may be limited. Plan your accommodations and travel arrangements well in advance.
Participation
If invited to join a family's New Year celebration, it's customary to bring a small gift, such as sweets or fruits. Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or homes.
Other Festivals in Kataragama
Discover more cultural and religious celebrations throughout the year.
Esala Perahera
The main festival of Kataragama with processions, firewalking ceremonies, and various acts of devotion.
Learn MoreThai Pongal
Tamil harvest festival with special pujas and sweet pongal preparation at the Kataragama Temple.
Learn MoreFull Moon Poya Days
Monthly full moon celebrations with increased pilgrimages and special ceremonies at the temple.
Learn MoreExperience the Sinhala & Tamil New Year in Sri Lanka
Immerse yourself in this vibrant cultural celebration that brings together communities across Sri Lanka.