January 14, Colombo (LNW): In his message for Thai Pongal, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has emphasised the festival’s profound cultural and spiritual importance, connecting it to Sri Lanka’s broader vision for environmental and societal rejuvenation.
Thai Pongal, celebrated primarily by the Tamil and Hindu communities around the world, marks a significant occasion to honour the forces of nature that contribute to the harvest.
“This festival is a time of thanksgiving, dedicated to the Sun, Earth, rain, and the cattle that play a vital role in ensuring a plentiful yield,” President Dissanayake stated, highlighting the agricultural origins of the celebration and its deep respect for the natural world.
He went on to explain that the festival is not only a recognition of nature’s contributions but also a symbol of renewal and coexistence.
“Beyond its agricultural roots, Thai Pongal represents a deeper spirit of renewal, and stands as a reminder of the need for harmony and peaceful coexistence within our communities,” the President observed.
The President also drew a parallel between the values inherent in Thai Pongal and Sri Lanka’s ongoing “Clean Sri Lanka” initiative. This national endeavour, which seeks to promote environmental sustainability and ethical progress, aligns closely with the themes of unity and rejuvenation celebrated during the festival.
“As our nation embraces the ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ initiative, it is clear that the values of Thai Pongal—renewal, gratitude, and harmony—are at the heart of this transformative effort,” he added.
In concluding his message, President Dissanayake called for collective action towards creating a sustainable and prosperous future for all Sri Lankans.
“I urge everyone to come together, united in purpose and dedication, to ensure that our nation thrives in peace and harmony. Let this Thai Pongal inspire us all to work towards a brighter, more optimistic future for generations to come.”
Full Statement:
“The Thai Pongal festival, also known as the “Harvest Festival,” is observed with profound reverence by Tamil and Hindu communities worldwide. This significant occasion is dedicated to expressing gratitude to the Sun, the Earth, rain, and cattle for their indispensable contributions to a bountiful harvest.
This festival is celebrated on the first day of the month of “Thai” according to the Tamil calendar. The festival marks the commencement of the Sun’s northward journey, referred to as “Uttarayana.” Beyond its agricultural significance, Thai Pongal embodies the spirit of renewal and symbolizes the values of harmony and coexistence within human society, both internally and externally.
This celebration signifies not only a pivotal shift in direction but also underscores the importance of harmonious coexistence—both within society and with the environment. At a time when Sri Lanka has embarked on the transformative “Clean Sri Lanka” initiative, aimed at fostering ecological and ethical progress, the values symbolized by Thai Pongal align profoundly with the objectives of this initiative, reflecting the inseparable bond between humanity and nature.
Thai Pongal serves as a source of cultural rejuvenation, instilling renewed hope and inspiration in our collective lives. As we embrace the New Year with renewed vigor and aspirations for a “beautiful life,” we are presented with a significant opportunity to collaborate toward building an environmentally conscious and culturally enriched society.
By prioritizing sustainable development and championing lasting peace and unity, we reaffirm our commitment to leading with integrity, resilience, and an unwavering dedication to fulfilling our responsibilities to the nation and its people.
I invite everyone to come together with a shared sense of purpose and commitment to ensure the prosperity and well-being of our nation, cherishing the joy and happiness that enrich the lives of all Sri Lankans. May this Thai Pongal celebration be a blessing and a guiding light, inspiring hope and optimism for a brighter future.
I extend my heartfelt wishes to all Sri Lankans and Hindu devotees around the world for a prosperous and joyous Thai Pongal, filled with gratitude, harmony, and abundance!”
