Come Avurudu time, the aroma of kevum, kokis and mung kavum permeate the air. The sound of the Koha calls upon Sinhala and Tamil New Year. Family and friends gather together. For us expatriates Sinhala and Tamil New Years brings no Kohas and most of us rush to complete our income taxes. However it is a time to reminisce the past and meet up with friends and family while enjoying some fresh Kavum and Kokis.
Most Sri Lankan Angelenos head to Woodley Park to celebrate the New Year dressed in colorful traditional wear. Children get a chance to enjoy Avurudu games and take part in the Avurudu Kumari and Singithi Avurudu Kumari competitions. As always Sri Lanka America Association of Southern California (SLAASC) organized a grand Avurudu Ulela on April 8th, 2018.
The day began with the lighting of the traditional oil lamp. Then the hearth was lit to signify prosperity amidst the raban playing. Then followed a feast of kiribath, bananas, sweets like aggala, kavum, thalaguli, aasmi, kokis, aluwa and many other delicacies. Avurudu Kumari and Sigithi Avurudu kumari was crowned and the cultural show portion of the event bought together many local talent. This year they even had a Jana gee competition and many gathered to enjoy folk songs. The kids and adults alike enjoyed many fun-filled games like Kotta Pora (Pillow Fight), sack race, Kamba Adeema (tug-of-war), etc. Everyone enjoyed the live beats of HEAT and danced the day away.
