Articles tagged with “newyearrituals”

While many countries mark the new year on January 1, Sri Lanka celebrates the Sinhala and Tamil New Year on April 1314. This festival, based on astrological movements, honors the sun god and features rich traditions, rituals, and family gatherings. The celebrations begin with Nonagathe, a neutral period for religious observances. Key rituals include lighting the hearth, preparing milk rice, and sharing festive meals. Families exchange money and anoint oil for blessings, all timed to auspicious moments. Traditional sweets like kokis and kavum are central to the festivities. Games such as tugofwar and pillow fights bring communities together. The holiday also sees urban workers returning to villages for family reunions. The Tamil community celebrates Puththandu with similar customs. The festival highlights Sri Lanka's cultural heritage through food, music, and ageold traditions.