The Sinhala and Tamil New Year or as we all call it Avurudu in Sinhala, has become an important national holiday for both Sinhala Buddhists and the Tamil Hindus of Sri Lanka. It is unique because it is not celebrated in any other country as a national festival. Sri Lankans begin celebrating 'Aluth Avurudu' in the month of Bak (April) when the sun moves from the Meena Rashiya to the Mesha Rashiya. The name 'Bak' is derived from the Sanskrit word 'bhagya' meaning 'fortunate'.
When one takes a herbal bath (A herbal bath gives physical purification.), anointed with gingelly oil or mustard oil, it provides a soothing effect for the body. Traditionally, the anointing is done by an old person who is healthy. A certain mysterious force is attributed to the leaves used for anointing the head. They are selected in relation to the day of the week on which the rituals have to be performed, e.g. 'Imbul' on Sundays, 'Divul' on Mondays, 'Kolong' on Tuesdays, 'Kohomba' on Wednesdays, 'Bo' on Thursdays, 'Karanda' on Fridays and 'Nuga' on Saturdays.
The New Year Anointment is at WBV from 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm
• Budda Vandana & Gilanpasa Puja
• Pirith Chanting
• Dharma Desana
• Anointment & Pay Respect to the Monk & Elders
5.45 PM - Arrival
6.00 PM - Buddha Vandana
6.15 PM - Chanting
6.30 PM - Metta Meditation
6.45 PM - offering betel leaves to parents/adults
7.00 PM - Anointment (Hisa Thel Gaama) anointing with oil/tying of Pirith - protected thread
7.15 PM - Refreshments (Sri Lankan New Year Traditional Food)
7.45 PM - End
691 Campbell Ave
Windsor, Ontario.
N9B 2H6