The aroma of milk rice fills the air, the sound of firecrackers echoes in the distance, and families gather dressed in traditional attire—men in sarongs, women in sarees or Redda-Hatte. For Sri Lankans, Aluth Avurudu (Sinhala & Tamil New Year) is not just a date on the calendar; it’s a feeling—a celebration of renewal, gratitude, and togetherness.
Is Avurudu Celebrated Only in Sri Lanka?
The answer is both yes and no. While Aluth Avurudu is deeply rooted in Sri Lankan culture, its origins lie in astrological and agricultural traditions. The festival marks the sun’s transition from Meena Rashiya (House of Pisces) to Mesha Rashiya (House of Aries), signaling the end of the harvest season and the beginning of spring.
Similar celebrations occur across South and Southeast Asia:
- India: Assam (Rongali Bihu), West Bengal (Pohela Boishakh), Kerala (Vishu), Punjab (Vaisakhi)
- Thailand: Songkran
- Cambodia: Chol Chnam Thmey
- Laos: Pi Mai
- Myanmar: Thingyan
Each festival has its unique customs but shares the common theme of renewal and gratitude.
Origins of Aluth Avurudu
In ancient times, the New Year was known as “Aluth Sahal Mangalle” (New Rice Harvest Ceremony), a harvest festival where communities thanked the gods for a bountiful yield and prayed for prosperity in the coming season. Over time, this evolved into the vibrant Aluth Avurudu, blending Sinhala and Tamil traditions into a unified celebration.
It’s All About Timing & the Stars!
Sri Lankans follow “Nekath” (auspicious times) determined by astrologers. Every ritual—from cooking the first meal to starting work—is done at precise moments for good fortune.
Traditions & Activities
- Wearing Auspicious Colors – People wear specific colors believed to bring luck in the New Year.
- Offering Betel Leaves – A sign of respect, betel leaves are given to elders to seek blessings.
- Traditional Games –
- Kotta Pora (Pillow fights)
- Lissana Gaha (Climbing a greasy pole)
- Sack races, tug-of-war, and more
Communities organize Avurudu Kreeda Uthsawa (New Year sports festivals) for fun and bonding.
- Planting Tree Saplings – Symbolizing growth and environmental care.
- Sharing Sweets & Meals – Families exchange homemade treats like kokis, kavum, asmi, and milk rice with neighbors and relatives.
- Visiting Loved Ones – People travel to their hometowns, reuniting with family and friends.
- Auspicious Time for Work – Many return to work at an astrologically chosen time for prosperity.
The Mouth-Watering Avurudu Feast
No Avurudu is complete without its delicious sweets and meals:
- Kiribath (Milk rice)
- Kokis (Crispy deep-fried snacks)
- Kavum (Oil cakes)
- Asmi (Sweet, lacy delicacies)
- Aluwa (Rice flour sweets)
While some urban families buy these treats, the essence of homemade goodness remains cherished.
A Celebration of Unity & Joy
Aluth Avurudu is more than just rituals—it’s about family, tradition, and new beginnings. From lighting the hearth at the right moment to playing games with neighbors, every custom strengthens bonds and renews hope for the year ahead.
For Sri Lankans, Avurudu is not just a festival—it’s a way of life.