Traditional celebrations …Down Under

The Sinhala and Tamil New Year celebrations didn’t go right in our part of the world. And, we have now got to face the music, as one would say!

At this point in time, it’s not a happy scene that we, Sri Lankans, are experiencing.

However, Down Under, in Melbourne, especially, the Avuruddu celebrations seem to have gone down very well, with the Sri Lankans living in the state of Victoria, with no side-effects, whatsoever!

Trevine Rodrigo, who resides in Melbourne, was present to check things out for The Island, and sent us the following report:

“Sinhala Avurudda, with a classy array of special events, fabulous cuisine, and a mix of politicians, and celebrities, was the highlight of this year’s Walawwa festivities. (Walawwa, incidentally, is a well-known Sri Lankan restaurant, in Melbourne, and very popular with the Sri Lankan crowd.)

“The breakout from the lockdown, last year, could not have been more emphatic as Melburnians flocked, in large numbers, to part take in the traditional Sri Lankan celebrations, connected with the Sinhala and Tamil New Year, and they partied with gusto, taking the event to near normalcy, in the prevailing Covid-19 restrictions.

“Walawwa owners Nash Samarakoon and Shehan Wijewardena spearheaded a well-knit team that organised and executed a well-orchestrated afternoon programme that included the selection of the Avuruddu Kumari and Kumaraya.

“Traditional events for kids, and the younger generation, were also some of the highlights that provided family entertainment, and an all-round good time for all present..

“The smorgasbord lunch on offer was absolutely delectable, rounded off with a delightful array of desserts.

“Earlier, Sri Lankan Kavum, Kokis and other related delicacies, with Kiribath, were served. to give the event its authenticity.

“Liberal MP Jason Wood was the Chief Guest.”