New Year Celebrations 2018
Leeds Sri Lankan New Year Celebrations organised by Leeds Buddhist Vihara was held on 21st April 2018 at Leeds Trinity University.
The event opened with the lighting of traditional oil lamp by Venerable Galpottayaye Pemananda Thero, the deputy head monk of Leeds Buddhist Vihara, followed by venerable Kaluaggala Saranasiri Thero and other distinguished guests. In his speech, Venerable Galpottayaye Pemananda Thero welcomed the parents, children and well-wishers who were present.
The traditional Sinhala New Year customs were enacted by a family from Leeds. The traditions were explained in both Sinhala and English for the benefit of children. The audience was treated to raban pada which was enjoyed by all. Afterwards, a Sri Lankan buffet lunch was served.
An amazingly vibrant and colourful cultural show was held in the afternoon that attracted everybody’s attention. Children from both Leeds and Middlesbrough Dhamma schools performed traditional dancing and musical items such as Puja Natuma, Kulu Natuma etc.
Next part of the event was the traditional games for children and adults such as draw an eye on the elephant, lime and spoon race, tug of war etc. Both children and adults alike enjoyed these games and presents were distributed to the winners.
At the end of the event, the Awurudu Table was open to all that included traditional food items such as kiribath, kavum, kokis, aasmi etc.
All children who took part in the cultural show were given presents.
The event concluded with the chanting of pirith by Venerable Galpottayaye Pemananda Thero.