April 14, Colombo (LNW) Sri Lanka today welcomed the Sinhala and Tamil New Year at precisely 9.32 a.m., ushering in one of the island’s most cherished cultural festivities. Families across the country marked the moment with age-old customs that blend spirituality, astrology, and community spirit.
Following the traditional schedule of auspicious times, households are set to begin preparing their first New Year meals at 10.51 a.m. In keeping with custom, people are encouraged to wear red garments, face south, and ceremonially light the hearth before cooking, symbolising prosperity and renewal.
The designated time for commencing daily activities, engaging in financial transactions, and sharing the first meal of the year falls at 12.06 p.m., reinforcing the importance of beginning the year on a harmonious note.
Rituals will continue into the following day, with the ceremonial oil anointing planned for 6.55 a.m. on April 15. Participants are to dress in green, face east, and observe traditional practices involving medicinal leaves and herbal oils, believed to promote health and well-being for the year ahead.
Further observances include setting out for important duties on April 17 at 5.38 a.m., while the resumption of regular work is advised on 20 April during two favourable times in the early morning.
Looking ahead, the planting of tree saplings has been designated for April 23 at 9.01 a.m., encouraging a connection with nature and symbolising growth and continuity in the new year.