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Celebrated during the auspicious month of April, the New Year Festival is a very important national holiday for both Sinhalese Buddhists and Tamil Hindus in Sri Lanka.

Who celebrates it

The solor festival is celebrated by both the Sinhala Buddhist and Tamil Hindu Communities.

Amila Tennakoon, A colorful Puthandu welcome to Sinhala and Tamil New Year in Sri Lanka, CC BY 2.0

What it’s About

Unlike western celebration where the New Year is celebrated at midnight on 31st of December, the Sinhala and Tamil New Year is determined by astrological signs and is celebrated when the sun moves from the House of Pisces to the House of Aries.

Traditional Customs and Rituals

The rituals and customs followed by the Sinhala Buddhist community are similar to those observed by the Tamil Hindus. A variety of rituals such lighting the fire in the hearth, preparing the customary dish of Kiribath, (Milk Rice), entering into the first monetary transaction are only some of the customs which are observed. A very important custom followed by both communities is to boil milk in a new clay pot facing an auspicious direction. Prosperity is symbolized when the milk overflows.

Food

Preparing various dishes and feasting with friends and family is very a important part of the Festival. Traditional sweetmeats such Kaung an oil cake of sorts and Kokis are some of the sweet meats prepared. If you happen to be in Colombo during the festival be sure to try them. Most Colombo city hotels including the likes of Colombo Court Hotel & Spa prepare spreads for their guests.

Amila Tennakoon, A food treats arrangement for Puthandu (Vaisakhi) Tamil Hindu New Year, CC BY 2.0

Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world. Google+

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