Sinhala & Tamil New Year 2025

The Sinhala and Tamil New Year, known as "Aluth Avurudda" in Sinhala and "Puthandu" in Tamil, is one of the most significant celebrations for Sri Lankans and Tamils in India. Marking the beginning of a new year in the traditional solar calendar, this festival is deeply rooted in cultural traditions, family values, and religious observances.

When is Sinhala & Tamil New Year in 2025?

In 2025, Sinhala and Tamil New Year falls on Monday, April 14. This auspicious occasion signifies the transition of the sun from Pisces to Aries, symbolizing prosperity, renewal, and the end of the harvest season. It is a time when families come together to perform age-old rituals, enjoy delicious food, and share goodwill with their communities.

How is Sinhala & Tamil New Year Celebrated?

The celebrations are filled with unique customs and traditions that have been passed down through generations. Here are some of the key activities that take place:

1. Cleaning and Decorating the Home

In preparation for the New Year, families clean their homes thoroughly, believing that this brings positivity and prosperity. Many decorate their doorsteps with kolam, intricate designs made from rice flour, symbolizing good fortune.

2. Observing the Auspicious Times

Unlike the Gregorian New Year, where celebrations begin at midnight, Sinhala and Tamil New Year follows an astrological timetable. Specific times are set for cooking the first meal, exchanging money, and engaging in work, all of which are thought to bring blessings for the year ahead.

3. Preparing and Sharing Traditional Foods

Food plays a major role in the celebrations. Families prepare special dishes such as:

• Kiribath (Milk Rice) – A staple dish cooked with coconut milk, often served with spicy sambols.
• Kokis – A crispy, deep-fried snack made from rice flour and coconut milk.
• Halwa – A sweet delicacy made with rice flour, treacle, and cardamom.
• Mung Kavum – A traditional sweet made from mung bean flour and treacle.

4. Engaging in Traditional Games and Activities

Communities organize various traditional games such as:

• Kotta Pora (pillow fighting on a log)
• Pancha Keliya (a dice-based game)
• Olinda Keliya (a board game played with seeds)

These games foster a spirit of unity, joy, and cultural pride.

5. Religious Observances

Many people visit temples and kovils to offer prayers, seeking blessings for the year ahead. Buddhist and Hindu rituals emphasize gratitude, renewal, and spiritual well-being.

How to Celebrate Sinhala & Tamil New Year When You're Overseas

If you’re living abroad, celebrating Sinhala and Tamil New Year can feel different, but there are still many ways to keep the traditions alive. Here’s how:

1. Connect with Your Community

Many Sri Lankan and Tamil communities in Canada, India, and around the world organize New Year gatherings. These events feature cultural performances, games, and food stalls offering traditional delicacies. Participating in such events can help you feel connected to your roots.

2. Source Traditional Ingredients & Items

If you’re looking to cook traditional New Year dishes, you can find Sri Lankan ingredients at South Asian grocery stores or order them online. Websites like Sri Lankan Grocery Canada and local Asian supermarkets stock key ingredients like coconut milk, jaggery, and spices.

3. Attend Virtual New Year Celebrations

If attending a physical event isn’t possible, many Sri Lankan organizations host virtual celebrations, live-streaming temple prayers, cultural performances, and cooking demonstrations. Connecting with family and friends over a video call to share a meal and exchange well wishes can also be a great way to celebrate.

Sinhala & Tamil New Year Events in Canada (2025)

If you're in Canada and looking for ways to celebrate, here are some New Year events happening across the country:

• British Columbia: The Sri Lankan Friendship Association of BC will host their Sinhala & Tamil New Year celebration on April 26, 2025. (Facebook Event Link)
• Saskatchewan: The Sri Lanka Association of Saskatoon Inc. (SLAS) is organizing a New Year festival on May 24, 2025, at St. Luke Elementary School. (Event Details)
• Ontario: The Sri Varasiththi Vinaayagar Hindu Temple in Toronto is expected to hold special Puthandu prayers and cultural activities. (More Info)

Sending Love to Family & Friends in Sri Lanka and India!

The New Year is all about togetherness, and a great way to stay connected with loved ones back home is by sending them a thoughtful gift or financial support. With RemitBee, you can send money to Sri Lanka and India from Canada quickly, securely, and at great exchange rates. Whether it’s a cash gift for family or funds to help with New Year celebrations, RemitBee makes it easy to share your love across distances.

Why Choose RemitBee?

• Low transfer fees and great exchange rates
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• Easy-to-use app and website

Start your RemitBee transfer today and make this Sinhala & Tamil New Year extra special for your loved ones!

Wishing You a Prosperous Sinhala & Tamil New Year!

No matter where you are, Sinhala and Tamil New Year is a special time to celebrate culture, family, and new beginnings. We hope this guide helps you have a happy and meaningful celebration in 2025. Wishing you a joyful Aluth Avurudda & Puthandu!