New Year thoughts

by Lakshimi PEIRIS

Sinhala Aluth Avurudda - reminiscence of our cultural values and customs which celebrated through generations fulfilling our entire image with unity and harmony. It has been throughout the decades. During this season of the Sinhala New Year, clothing, toys, eatables and equipment are sold at discounted rates. Shopping sprees are a galore of surprises. That's at present. What about the past?

Sinhala Aluth Avurudda has come down the ages and entered our lives. Aachchi, Seeya, Amma, Thaththa, Nenda, Maama, Muththa, Kirikiththa all are still alive to repeat and speak about the memories they had experienced in the past. Nature tells us the time when the Sinhala Avurudda is approaching, with the rhyming call of the Koel (koha). The traditional oil lamp, sheaf of betel leaves, worshipping elders, depicts the cultural values our forefathers have gifted to us. Kevili Pevili which meant as eatable sweetmeats is specially prepared for Sinhala Avurudda before hand. The pot of oil is kept on the fire according to an auspicious time (nekath). Sweetmeats are prepared thereafter. Athirasa, konda-kevum, mung-kevum, kokis, kaludodol, asmi, aluwa all these Kevili Pevili turns to taste with a mixture of treacle, jaggery, coconut and flour. Ripe yellow bananas too add colour. The "Avurudu Table" is arranged with these eatables. The lighted oil lamp and sheaves of betel leaves are also kept on the table.

Kiribath is the first meal cooked at the auspicious time. Crackers from all parts of the country vouch for it. Partaking kiribath and other eatables are done at an auspicious time, wearing new clothes in the relevant colour mentioned in the Nekath Pathraya. Ganu Denu is in line thereafter. Money is exchanged wrapped in a betel leaf by the elder in the family. Worshipping elders comes naturally, which makes us ponder that we still respect our elders. When they hold our heads with their hands, one feel the emotional bond.

A number of events takes place in our country thereafter. Going on the swing is a enjoyal by girls and kids. The rabana is played by women gathering round.

This is an enthralling experience pancha demeema, pora pol geseema, thrikkala diveema and many other games are engaged in. Avurudu Selecting the beauty - the "Avurudu Kumari", Rupa Sundari" or "Panchakalyani" is a must - and has gone on for decades. Hisa Thel Gaama (anointing oil) and bathing ceremonies take place thereafter at the auspicious time. It is a belief that herbal leaves put-into the oil and rubbed on the head takes off many illnesses giving a healthier life throughout the years to come.