The Hon. Speaker (Dr.) Jagath Wickramaratne underscored that Parliament brings together individuals with a diverse range of beliefs, and that witnessing Thai Pongal being embraced by all with such genuine warmth reflects the true beauty of shared humanity. He further noted that the festival’s essence lies in its message of unity. Just as the sun, essential to life and equal to all, Thai Pongal reminds us that a nation can only progress when its people stand together, the Speaker said.
The Thai Pongal Festival organized to commemorate the Thai Pongal Day, which fell on the 15th, was celebrated today (Jan. 21) with great festivity under the patronage of the Hon. Speaker (Dr.) Jagath Wickramaratne at the Parliament premises.
Addressing the gathering, the Secretary General of Parliament, Mrs. Kushani Rohanadeera, stated that Thai Pongal is not merely a festival, but a profound celebration of the deep respect Sri Lankans hold for agriculture and nature. She highlighted that Parliament is home to a diverse community of religious and cultural backgrounds, with its staff working with unwavering commitment in service to the country. She noted that it is truly a special moment to be able to celebrate such diversity together, underscoring the importance of unity and shared heritage within the Parliamentary institution.
This event was attended by Hindu religious priests of Mayurapathy Kovil, the Hon. Deputy Speaker (Dr.) Rizvie Salih, Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees Hemali Weerasekara, Hon. Leader of the House and Minister Bimal Rathnayake, Hon. Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs (Dr.) Hiniduma Sunil Senevi, Deputy Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs Gamagedara Dissanayake, Hon. Deputy Minister of Religious and Cultural Affairs Muneer Mulaffer, Hon. Chief Opposition Whip Gayantha Karunathilleka other Hon. Ministers and Deputy Ministers, Hon. Members of Parliament, Chief of Staff and Deputy Secretary General Mr. Chaminda Kularatne, and Assistant Secretary General Mr. Hansa Abeyrathne, were among other distinguished guests.
This celebration was organized following a proposal by Hon. (Dr.) S. Sri Bavanandarajah, and under the guidance of the Hon. Speaker. It was supported by the Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs and its Department of Hindu Religious and Cultural Affairs.
The event was designed with several key objectives, including promoting awareness and appreciation of Tamil culture among Hon. Members of Parliament and the public, respecting the heritage and traditions of the Tamil community, and fostering an inclusive national identity that recognizes and celebrates Sri Lanka's cultural diversity.
Accordingly, this morning's Thai Pongal celebration commenced with religious rituals. The event featured the creation of intricate Kolam designs and the preparation of Pongal rice by boiling milk to symbolize prosperity and gratitude.
The event was further enriched by several auspicious dance performances and musical recitals, adding vibrancy to the celebration.
A significant number of participants, including heads and officials of parliamentary departments, ministry representatives, and other distinguished attendees, joined the occasion to mark this celebration.
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