Traditional Games of Sinhala and Tamil New Year in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka’s Sinhala and Tamil New Year, celebrated in April, is a vibrant festival filled with joy, traditions, and community spirit. This cultural event signifies new beginnings and unity as the sun moves from the Meena (Pisces) to the Mesha (Aries) zodiac signs. One of the festival's most fascinating features is the traditional games that unite communities in joyous celebration, even though it is also well-known for its customs, mouth-watering traditional treats, and family get-togethers. As a derivative of the Sanskrit root word "Bhagya," the Sinhalese word "Bak" for the month of April actually means "fortune."
Avurudu, Sri Lanka’s traditional New Year, unites locals and travelers alike in a joyful celebration of culture, family, and tradition. While it’s a deeply personal time for many, it’s also a period when people travel far and wide to visit distant friends and family, bringing with them presents and sweets. As Buses and trains become packed with eager travelers returning to their villages. Sri Lanka enters a rare moment of nostalgia and cultural reconnection. For many, Avurudu is a time to embrace tradition, reunite with family, and slow down in a fast-paced world. At Edwards Collection’s boutique villas, guests can immerse themselves in these cherished traditions while enjoying the elegance of a private, luxury retreat allowing them to be part of a celebration that transcends geographical boundaries.
A Peek into the Festive Playground
As the Sinhala and Tamil New Year approaches, Sri Lanka transforms into a vibrant playground of tradition and celebration. Across the island, communities gather to welcome the New Year with age-old customs, joyous reunions, and spirited games that have been passed down through generations.
These folk games, also known as classical or traditional games, hold a special place in Avurudu celebrations. More than just entertainment, they reflect Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage, fostering a sense of unity, cooperation, and togetherness among families, friends, and even visitors experiencing the festival for the first time.
Traditional Avurudu Games for Tourists and Locals in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage is full of vibrant traditions that offer a unique and immersive experience for tourists. During the Avurudu season, visitors mainly foreigners have the opportunity to partake in a variety of activities that reflect the island’s spirit of togetherness, celebration, and community. At Edwards Collection, we bring traditional Avurudu games to life for our guests.
1) Pillow Fighting; A Must-Try Avurudu Game for Visitors
We Sri Lankans like to go about things in our own unique ways, and it’s the very same for pillow fights. Although pillow fighting may sound like something you've seen at sleepovers as a kid, it's a big athletic event in Sri Lanka. With one hand tied behind their back and the other resting on their pillow, both players balance while seated on a wooden beam. Men, women, and kids can all play this game, but players must be of the same gender and age group. This game, which challenges players' strength, balance, and strategy, always attracts a large audience because of its upbeat and humorous vibe.
· On a pole that is horizontal to the ground and most likely six feet high, two people are seated. Although this can be done on land or in water, the drama is undoubtedly increased when it is done over a river.
· Always keep one hand behind your back.
· The legs and hips are the only ways to stay afloat on the pole since the other hand must hold the pillow in it.
· You can use the pillow to strike the other person anywhere you like. No matter the face, chest, arms, or legs. Go for it!
· The loser is the one who falls off first!
2) Breaking the Pot; A Thrilling Avurudu Tradition
Kana Mutti Bindeema is a thrilling and deeply symbolic Sinhala and Tamil New Year (Avurudu) game that embodies perseverance, luck, and determination. In this traditional challenge, blindfolded participants attempt to break a series of clay pots with a bamboo stick, with only one containing blue water—the coveted prize. At Edwards Collection’s boutique villas, guests can immerse themselves in the festive spirit of Avurudu by experiencing Kana Mutti Bindeema and other cherished traditions in an exclusive, luxurious setting. Whether at The Sandals Balapitiya, The Frangipani Tree Thalpe, Hill Rise Nuwara Eliya, or Chatsworth Pupuressa, welcome the New Year with authentic cultural experiences, warm hospitality, and unforgettable celebrations.
· Challenges and Rewards – The blindfold symbolizes life’s uncertainties, while the act of breaking the correct pot represents the rewards of effort and good fortune.
· Testing One’s Instincts – Players must rely on their senses, intuition, and guidance from onlookers, mirroring the idea of trusting one’s path in life.
3) The Art of Climbing the Greasy Pole
Lissana Gaha Nagima, or Climbing the Greasy Pole, is one of the most exciting and time-honored traditions of Aluth Avurudu (Sinhala and Tamil New Year). In this exhilarating challenge, contestants attempt to scale a slippery, grease-covered pole to reach the reward at the top, symbolizing perseverance, resilience, and the pursuit of success in the New Year. At Edwards Collection’s boutique villas, guests can experience the thrill of Lissana Gaha Nagima in an exclusive, luxurious setting. Whether by the coast or amidst the hills, Edwards Collection offers an unforgettable Avurudu celebration, blending traditional games, world-class hospitality, and stunning surroundings for a truly unique New Year experience. Book your stay and celebrate in grandeur!
· Symbol of Overcoming Challenges – The greased pole represents life’s slippery challenges, and climbing it symbolizes the determination and resilience required to achieve one’s goals in the coming year.
· Excitement and Festivity – With onlookers cheering and enjoying the spectacle, Lissana Gaha Nagima fosters a vibrant, lively atmosphere, making it a beloved part of the New Year festivities.
4) History of Tug of War: From Ancient Ritual to Modern Sport
Travelers at Edwards Collection’s boutique villas can actively participate in Kamba Adeema, a traditional tug-of-war game that tests strength, teamwork, and strategy. The game involves two teams pulling a rope in opposing directions, with the goal of pushing the other team over a predetermined point. Whether joining a team or cheering from the sidelines, travelers can fully immerse themselves in the excitement of this activity. It’s a fun, engaging way for guests to interact with locals, bond with fellow travelers, and experience the true spirit of Sri Lanka’s Avurudu celebrations in a beautiful, relaxed setting.
· Teamwork and Unity – Kamba Edima emphasizes the importance of working together as a team to achieve a common goal. It mirrors the idea that success in life comes through collaboration and collective effort.
· Celebrating Community Spirit – With everyone cheering on the teams, Kamba Edima fosters a strong sense of community and camaraderie, making it a key part of Avurudu celebrations.
5) Olinda Keliya: A Traditional Sri Lankan Board Game
Olinda Keliya, a traditional board game played with Olinda seeds aka Crab’s Eye, is popular among women during the New Year. The board game "Olinda Keliya," also called "Mancala games," uses a wooden board with multiple holes called "Olinda Kolombuwa" or "Olinda Poruwa." It’s a game of skill and strategy, offering a more relaxed yet engaging alternative to the physical games.
Olinda Keliya holds deep cultural significance as a traditional game that reflects the wisdom and strategic thinking passed down through generations. It challenges players' mental agility, encouraging strategic decision-making and friendly competition. More than just a game, it fosters unity by bringing families and communities together, creating moments of laughter, conversation, and shared joy during Avurudu celebrations. Unlike physically demanding games, Olinda Keliya offers a relaxing and enjoyable way to engage in tradition while spending quality time with loved ones. At Edwards Collection’s boutique villas, guests can experience this timeless game.
6) Eating Buns Competition: A Hilarious Avurudu Game
Participants in this amusing game have to eat buns tied to a string without using their hands. Observers are constantly entertained by the contestant attempts to grasp the swinging buns.
Banis Kaema is a lighthearted and entertaining game that adds laughter and joy to Avurudu celebrations, as participants eagerly compete to eat buns as quickly as possible while keeping the atmosphere festive and fun. Beyond the excitement, it highlights the cultural significance of food during the New Year, with traditional treats like buns, kavum, and kokis symbolizing abundance and prosperity for the year ahead. This game also strengthens family bonds, encouraging friendly competition across generations and bringing loved ones together. Additionally, Banis Kaema serves as a great icebreaker, ensuring that guests of all ages and backgrounds feel included in the festivities. At Edwards Collection’s boutique villas, guests can experience this delightful tradition in a luxurious and intimate setting.
7) Drumming Competition: A Celebration of Music and Rhythm
The raban, a traditional drum, is beaten rhythmically as a game and as a musical performance. A vibrant and joyous ambiance is created as participants display their abilities by playing complex rhythms.
Raban Gasima is a vibrant expression of Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage, showcasing the rhythmic beats that have been an integral part of the island’s musical traditions for generations. The drumming competition not only highlights the country’s deep-rooted musical identity but also symbolizes unity and strength, as participants work together to create harmony—reflecting the communal spirit of the New Year festival. Traditionally, drumming is believed to invoke blessings and prosperity, making Raban Gasima both a spiritual and festive experience. The lively rhythms and joyful atmosphere bring families and friends together, creating unforgettable memories during Avurudu celebrations. At Edwards Collection’s boutique villas, guests can immerse themselves in this cherished tradition.
8) Gudu Keliya; A Fun and Active Game
Gudu Keliya is a traditional game, played with a small stick (gudu) and a longer stick. Fans frequently cheer enthusiastically during the game. At Edwards Collection’s boutique villas, guests can experience this spirited tradition, where breathtaking views and exceptional hospitality ensure an unforgettable New Year celebration.
Gudu Keliya is a dynamic and engaging traditional game that promotes physical activity, teamwork, and festive fun, offering a lively way to celebrate the New Year while strengthening bonds with loved ones. As a game passed down through generations, it embodies Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage and highlights the significance of outdoor, community-driven activities in Avurudu celebrations. Beyond entertainment, Gudu Keliya fosters teamwork and unity, as players must collaborate to achieve victory, reinforcing the spirit of togetherness and friendly competition. Its energetic and joyful nature brings people together, creating a warm and celebratory atmosphere that reflects the essence of Avurudu—family, friendship, and shared happiness.
9) The Thrill of a Sack Race Competition
In order to sprint toward the finish line, competitors hop inside big sacks called “Goni”. A mainstay of New Year's festivities, sack races are beloved by both kids and adults for their simplicity and humour. At Edwards Collection’s boutique villas, Foreign guests can experience the thrill of a lively Sack Race which is one of a kind unique to Sri Lanka.
Sack races bring joy and laughter to Avurudu celebrations as participants struggle to keep their balance while hopping toward the finish line, creating lighthearted and unforgettable moments. Beyond the fun, the game promotes physical activity, offering an energetic way to stay active while enjoying the festive spirit with family and friends. It also fosters friendly competition, encouraging participants to cheer each other on and strengthening bonds through shared excitement. Symbolically, the challenge of hopping in a sack represents perseverance and the ability to overcome obstacles, reflecting the themes of growth and prosperity for the year ahead.
10) Elle; A Symbol of Sri Lankan Heritage
This is an authentic Sri Lankan game similar to Baseball. Two teams compete in the bat-and-ball game named Elle. It is a well-liked option for New Year's celebrations because of its distinctive regulations and the sense of community it encourages.
At Edwards Collection’s boutique villas, guests can experience the thrill of Elle in an exclusive and picturesque setting upon request. Elle is a cherished part of Sri Lanka’s traditional sporting heritage, making it a meaningful way to celebrate the island’s history and customs during Avurudu. The game emphasizes teamwork and strategy, requiring coordination, quick reflexes, and tactical thinking, making it an exciting and engaging activity for family and friends. With its fast-paced nature, Elle adds energy and joy to the celebrations, creating a lively and competitive atmosphere. Traditionally played by the youth, it symbolizes vitality, strength, and the promise of new beginnings, while also offering a fun way for all generations to come together and stay active.
11) Coconut Scraping Competitions
Using traditional tools, competitors race to scrape the coconut meat in this fun competition. The activity blends skill and speed, and it frequently leads to enjoyment and laughter. The traditional kitchen tool used to scrape coconut is called “Hiramanya”.
Pol Gaema celebrates the central role of coconut in Sri Lankan cuisine, highlighting its significance in Avurudu feasts, where coconut is a key ingredient in dishes like kiribath (milk rice) and kirala (coconut milk). This competition focuses on the skill and precision required to scrape coconuts effectively, honoring the artistry involved in traditional cooking and food preparation. Often enjoyed as a family activity. Symbolically, coconuts represent abundance and prosperity in Sri Lankan culture, and the game reflects the hope for a fruitful year ahead.
At Edwards Collection’s boutique villas, guests can partake in this lively competition in an exclusive and picturesque setting. Book your stay today to experience a truly authentic Sri Lankan New Year! At The Far Pavilion Pinnawala, enjoy the Coconut Experience, where the coconut palm, known as the "Tree of Life," provides every part of the tree for consumption. Travellers can engage in a traditional Coconut Scraping Competition, a fun and energetic Avurudu activity that celebrates the skill and precision involved in preparing coconut for Sri Lankan delicacies.
12) Marathon Runs and Bicycle Races: A Celebration of Human Endurance
These two games are a modern touch to Avurudu. Marathon run is a long-distance foot race called “Gamawata Diveema”. Bicycle races are usually a happening event.
In many villages, these outdoor pursuits are a mainstay of the New Year. As the community comes together to support them, competitors test their stamina and speed.
Marathon runs and bicycle races promote health and wellness by encouraging participants to stay active and embrace fitness for the year ahead. These events also symbolize endurance, perseverance, and strength, qualities that resonate with the Avurudu season as people look toward a prosperous and successful year. Whether competing individually or in teams, these races foster a sense of community spirit, friendly rivalry, and camaraderie, making them a great way to bond with others during the festivities. Adaptable for all ages, both events are family-friendly, bringing together people from all generations to enjoy the celebrations. Set in beautiful outdoor locations, these races allow participants to connect with nature while staying active. At Edwards Collection’s boutique villas, guests can either participate in or watch exciting marathon runs and bicycle races, all while surrounded by stunning views. Whether by the beach, in the hills, or nestled in lush nature,
13) Swinging as known as Onchili Pedeema
Villages erect swings for the New Year, usually constructed from ropes fastened to tall trees. Children and couples like swinging together, which gives the celebrations a soft, sentimental charm.
Onchili Pedeema is a meaningful tradition that symbolizes renewal and rebirth, as the act of swinging into the New Year represents a fresh start. The upward motion is thought to signify the rise of prosperity and success for the year ahead. Beyond its symbolism, swinging is also viewed as a form of spiritual cleansing, believed to clear away negative energy and invite positive vibes into the new year. The simple joy of swinging is enjoyed by people of all ages, making Onchili Pedeema a fun and festive activity for families and communities, embracing the lighthearted spirit of Avurudu. Swinging with loved ones offers an opportunity to strengthen bonds and share laughter, creating quality moments together during the celebrations. At Edwards Collection’s boutique villas, guests can enjoy the tradition of Onchili Pedeema in a tranquil and scenic setting.
14) Mark the Elephant’s Eye as known as Aliyata Eha Thebeema
Targeting to trace the elephant's eye necessitates accuracy, perseverance, and acute awareness. It works well as a metaphor for strategic thinking and unwavering focus on reaching objectives in contemporary contexts.
· Celebrating Traditional Skills – The game highlights coordination, precision, and focus, offering a lighthearted challenge that participants can enjoy together during the festive Avurudu season.
· Symbolism of the Elephant – Elephants hold deep cultural significance in Sri Lanka. They symbolize wisdom, strength, and prosperity. Marking the elephant's eye is believed to bring good fortune and blessings for the year ahead.
At Edwards Collection’s boutique villas, you can enjoy the traditional game of Aliyata Eha Thebeema in a beautiful, serene setting.
15) Panchi Dameema: How Cowrie Shells Shape Sri Lanka's Traditional Game
Martin Wickremasinghe the most renowned Sri Lankan journalist cum author, used these words to eloquently describe this game of panchi demeema his book Gamperaliya:
"Each of the players of two groups alternately took turns to toss the seven lead-filled little cowries held in the hollow of a small polished coconut shell, onto the polished convex surface of a larger inverted half of a coconut shell. After each toss of the cowries, those that had come to rest with the flat surface upturned scored a point. The points scored by each side were registered by moving one or more of a set of pawns along a pattern of squares outlined on a wooden board, towards a home-base. The first team to take all the pawns to the home base won. Moving the pawns in the most advantageous way and avoiding elimination by pawns of the opponents, requires foresight, experience and shrewdness."
What to wear?
Dressing in traditional Sri Lankan attire is a wonderful way for visitors to fully immerse themselves in the Avurudu celebrations. The festival is a time of vibrant colors, cultural elegance, and cherished traditions, and clothing plays a significant role in the festive spirit.
For women, the saree is a timeless and graceful choice, known for its rich hues and intricate designs, symbolizing elegance and celebration. Another popular option is the Osariya, a uniquely Sri Lankan drape featuring a beautifully pleated skirt and blouse, perfect for both formal and festive occasions.
For men, the National Dress—a shirt paired with long pants and a sarong or lungi—is a refined and traditional option. For more formal occasions, men may opt for a jacket, waistcoat, or even a Nilame Costume, which is typically worn for grand ceremonies and weddings.
We recommend staying at Edwards Collection where you can embrace the spirit of Avurudu by wearing traditional attire like:
· Women: Saree, Osariya, Kandyan Saree, Lama Saree, Lungi
· Men: National Dress, Sarong and Shirt, Nilame Costume or Mul Anduma (mostly suited for Weddings), sherwani, Kurta, Lungi
A Celebration of Togetherness
Being together is the main focus of Avurudu season. It is undoubtedly a pleasant time of year when all hostile sentiments are put aside, leaving only room for friendship and sharing, and practically all of the games associated with the celebrations are designed to foster team spirit.
These traditional games serve as more than just amusement and entertainment; they are a reflection of Sri Lanka's rich cultural diversity and sense of community. They unite people of all ages and backgrounds, fostering an atmosphere of joy, laughter, and healthy rivalry. The Tamil and Sinhala New Year celebrations serve as a reminder of the value of harmony and the small joys in life. Future generations will be able to enjoy the beauty of this rich cultural legacy thanks to the preservation of these traditional games, which guarantee that the spirit of the New Year's celebrations will endure as Sri Lanka continues to modernize.
By participating in these timeless games at Edwards Collection’s opulent boutique properties, we invite tourists to fully immerse themselves in the essence of Sri Lanka's beloved Aluth Avurudu festival. Surrounded by the stunning scenery and tranquil atmosphere of our hotels, guests can embrace Sri Lanka's rich cultural legacy while enjoying the distinctive blend of luxury and authenticity that Edwards Collection is known for. Join us in celebrating Aluth Avurudu and create treasured memories, filled with grace and tradition, during your stay.
Experience the magic of Avurudu with Edwards Collection’s boutique villas. Celebrate Sri Lanka’s rich traditions while indulging in world-class luxury and hospitality. Book your stay today and make unforgettable memories this festive season!