Sinhala and Tamil New Year's Eve in Sri Lanka

Date: Occurs annually in April, typically on the 13th or 14th, aligning with the sun moving from the Meena Rashiya (House of Pisces) to the Mesha Rashiya (House of Aries).

History: The Sinhala and Tamil New Year, known as "Aluth Avurudda" in Sinhala and "Puthandu" in Tamil, has its origins rooted in ancient agricultural practices and astrological beliefs. It marks the end of the harvest season and is believed to be a time for socializing and rekindling familial bonds.

Traditions:

• Auspicious Times: Specific times are determined by astrologists for various activities such as lighting the hearth, preparing meals, and engaging in transactions.
• Nonagathe: A period of quiet reflection before the new year begins.
• New Year Rituals: Rituals include boiling milk in a new clay pot which symbolizes prosperity, preparing traditional sweets, and partaking in the first meal at an auspicious time.
• New Clothes: Wearing new clothes of specific colors determined by astrological charts.

Activities on New Year's Eve:

• Cleaning Homes: People clean their homes thoroughly to welcome the new year.
• Preparation of Traditional Foods: Families prepare traditional sweetmeats like 'kokis', 'kavum', 'athirasa', etc.
• Games and Sports: After the dawn of the New Year, communities engage in various games and sports such as pillow fighting, bun-eating contests, and tug-of-war.
• Cultural Events: Music and dance performances are common festivities during this time.

The Sinhala and Tamil New Year's Eve is a significant cultural event that combines religious customs with social practices. It is a celebration that reinforces social bonds within communities across Sri Lanka.