The Sinhala New Year stands as the most delightful and eagerly awaited festival for the Sinhala people. While Vesak holds a purely religious significance, the Sinhala New Year goes beyond faith, resonating on a social, cultural, and national level. Dating back to the existence of the Sinhala nation, April 14th is celebrated with grandeur, symbolizing the commencement of a new year and a time of jubilation.
The charm of the Sinhala New Year celebrations is most pronounced in the rural areas of Ceylon. In the preceding weeks of the great day, farmers diligently harvest their fields, reaping the fruits of their gardens. Some of the produce is sold to acquire funds for the forthcoming festivities, while the rest is carefully preserved for the merriment to come. The villages are abuzz with activity as the "Erabudu" trees blossom into vibrant red, and the melodious songs of the "koha" resonate from the heavily laden mango trees. The "rabane," which had hung on the wall in silence, is now taken down, and swings are joyfully set up, heralding the arrival of the Sinhala New Year - a time of joy and celebration.
The Sinhala New Year falls in the enchanting month of April, yet it does not adhere to a fixed date each year. The astrologers play a pivotal role in determining the auspicious moment when the sun traverses from the 12th constellation to the first in the zodiac, signaling the end of the old year and the commencement of the new one, along with the customs that must be adhered to.
The lead-up to the New Year is marked by a period of preparation. With the harvest gathered and stored, it is now time for revelry. Housewives immerse themselves in bustling shopping for food, clothes, and gifts, while homes receive a fresh coat of color, adorning a "new look" in preparation for the festivities. The air fills with the sweet aroma of coconut oil as traditional Sinhala sweetmeats are lovingly prepared.
As the old year draws to a close, activities come to a standstill. The hearth is extinguished, and the period between the old and New Year, known as "nonagathe," is deemed unlucky, prompting people to spend this time in temples seeking blessings. The arrival of the New Year is ushered in at an auspicious time, announced by the pealing of temple bells and the vibrant burst of crackers. Ensuring prosperity for the coming year, all significant activities are carried out at auspicious moments. The hearth is relit, and the traditional "ilk rice" is cooked, followed by the first meal consumed at an auspicious time. Wearing clothes of auspicious colors and facing the right direction while doing so are believed to bring good fortune. Then comes the exchange of money and gifts, as children show their respect to their elders, visitors are warmly entertained, and friends and family exchange tokens of affection. There are auspicious times designated for anointing oil on the head, taking the first bath, and setting out to work.
National festivals are a time for amusement and games, and the Sinhala New Year is no exception. The lively thump of the rabana drum echoes in the air, accompanied by the crackling sounds of fireworks. People sing joyfully as they partake in swinging activities. In villages, both young and old relish in traditional games and sports, including "punchi," pillow fights, cadjan weaving, and hackery races. Additionally, a "kumara" or "kumari" is chosen to represent the spirit of the New Year.
In conclusion, the Sinhala New Year is an exuberant and culturally significant festival that unites the Sinhala people in celebration. From the harmonious sounds of temple bells to the joyous atmosphere filled with laughter and games, this cherished occasion fosters a sense of unity and pride in the nation's traditions. As the Sinhala New Year approaches each year, the hearts of the Sinhala people brim with anticipation, eagerly awaiting the opportunity to embrace their customs and celebrate the dawning of a new year filled with hope, joy, and prosperity.