![Gossip Lanka News [English]](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhYm2aFFq-bIW1nWX-RrqnPFoIsVos6_VCVz8BpLt0QJi55GNXHXC2fugeRvL0qUStEuCfs7Sfu6ZiSlhrkldxfGuE_wzy5gitY6rMZ2KSi8VBbGvkgXLks37RwZV-4-HKbWiNLRxB8C_r1e4z3mpxFTMPDJPEADoG8E-bZteWFipeD5KNGbjvCfqEfKw=s300 "Gossip Lanka News [English]")
Protecting Sri Lanka’s maritime boundaries and actively contributing to international operations, the Sri Lanka Navy organised a unique and special New Year celebration this year. Aimed at promoting tourism and water-based recreational activities, the Navy held an underwater Avurudu (New Year) festival ahead of the traditional Sinhala and Tamil New Year.
This celebration stood out from conventional New Year festivals with several creative twists. For example, instead of the traditional “pin the tail on the elephant” game, participants took part in “pin the eye on the anchor.” Additionally, due to the limited space on the “Sindurala” naval vessel, the traditional tug-of-war game was adapted in an innovative way.
Rather than two teams pulling from opposite ends, a central pulley system was used where all participants pulled in one direction. The team that crossed the designated limit line was deemed the loser. Although the participants were split into teams, the format highlighted how a unified effort could lead to national victory — a metaphorical message embedded in the activity.
The Navy’s celebration also included other popular traditional Avurudu activities such as breaking the clay pot blindfolded, pillow fighting, folk singing, and musical performances. This event marked a creative initiative to boost both local and international tourism by showcasing Sri Lanka’s cultural richness in a novel way.
On April 14, the official New Year day, another Avurudu celebration was held onboard the “Sindurala” vessel in collaboration with a special request from the Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC).
Mrs. Anusha Bannagoda, Chairperson of the Navy Seva Vanitha Unit, also participated in the festivities as a distinguished guest alongside the Navy Commander.
Through events like these, the Sri Lanka Navy once again demonstrated that beyond fulfilling its national defense duties, it also plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting national cultural traditions.
