17th April 2025 06:10:17 Hours
In a vibrant display of cultural harmony and festivity, the 56 Infantry Division successfully organised the “Sinhala and Tamil New Year Festival – 2025” on 16 April 2025 at the Municipal Council Grounds, Vavuniya. The event was held with the noble intention of fostering multi-ethnic unity and reconciliation among the communities in the region.
The festival was conducted under the supervision of the Commander Security Forces (Wanni) Major General K M P S B Kulatunga RSP ndc psc and the guidance of the General Officer Commanding 56 Infantry Division, Major General K N D Karunapala RSP ndu.
Major General K M P S B Kulatunga RSP ndc psc along with Mrs G A Kulatunga and Mr P A Sarathchandra District Secretary Vavuniya graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, adding prestige and warmth to the celebration.
The day was filled with a variety of traditional, cultural, and recreational events, including a marathon, selection of the New Year Prince and Princess, grease pole climbing, tug of war, pillow fights, and many other entertaining activities that delighted both participants and spectators alike.
The festival was further enriched by the generous sponsorship of gifts and vouchers by Nestle Lanka (Pvt) Ltd, whose support played a significant role in enhancing the success of the event.
A wide range of dignitaries and guests were in attendance, including local religious leaders, government officials, senior military officers, as well as officers and other ranks from the Headquarter Security Forces (Wanni), 56 Infantry Division, its under-command brigades, and battalions.
The New Year Festival – 2025 not only celebrated the essence of Sri Lankan culture but also strengthened bonds of friendship with military and Sinhala, Tamil and Muslim communities in the area, fostering mutual respect, and understanding in line with the Sri Lanka Army’s continued commitment to peace-building and national unity.
