Good morning to all my Hive friends,
About a month ago, I had the wonderful opportunity to organize a celebration at my workplace in honor of the Sinhala and Hindu New Year. It was a lively event filled with smiles, tradition, and a strong sense of togetherness.
The goal was not only to mark the dawn of a new year but also to appreciate our cultural heritage and bring our colleagues together through friendly competition and shared joy.
Looking back, it was truly an unforgettable experience. The event was organized under the name "SRR Avurudu Udanaya."
So, the planning began a few weeks in advance. I coordinated with management and enthusiastic team members to design a day that would not only offer a break from our usual routine but also reflect our cultural heritage.
We decided to go beyond the traditional rituals and create a mini Avurudu fair that included fun competitions, traditional games, and food stalls—bringing the true spirit of the New Year to li
The day of the celebration began with a simple yet meaningful lighting of the traditional oil lamp, followed by a betel leaf offering and the singing of the national anthem. Dressed in traditional attire, everyone looked joyful and festive, setting a vibrant and respectful tone right from the start.
Then came the real fun: the games! We organized a variety of events that blended competition and enjoyment, tailored to different interests and skill levels. From breaking the pot and curd-feeding races to tug-of-war and balloon dancing, every activity brought laughter and enthusiasm. Some games were adapted to encourage team building, while others were purely for lighthearted fun.
Even those who didn’t actively participate became energetic cheerleaders, showing just how much positive energy filled the atmosphere.
In between events, we served sweetmeats like kavum, kokis, and aluwa, along with herbal drinks and local fruits. These treats not only satisfied our taste buds but also reminded us of the rich culinary traditions of the New Year season.
A standout moment of the celebration was the “Kotta Pora” (pillow fight on a log), a traditional and humorous New Year game that had everyone laughing heartily. It brought back beautiful childhood memories for many of us.
What truly made this celebration special was the sense of unity it fostered. Colleagues from various departments mingled freely, the usual boundaries of hierarchy faded away, and the entire workplace felt like one big family. Through this shared celebration, our sense of togetherness and mutual respect grew stronger. That, indeed, is the true strength of our organization.
As the day came to a close, we held a small prize-giving ceremony to appreciate all participants and winners. Everyone went home with a smile—some with gifts, but all with cherished memories. To add to the fun, there was also a DJ music session that kept the energy alive.
Organizing this event was a fulfilling experience, and its success reminded me how important it is to create moments of joy and connection in our professional lives. Celebrating our cultural roots not only uplifted our spirits but also brought us closer together as a team. I’m already looking forward to next year!