THE HEADQUARTERS OF THE VOLUNTEER FORCE ATTAINS NEW YEAR FESTIVE FORMALITIES

New Year festive formalities for the forthcoming Sinhala and Tamil New Year – 2024 were attained on 08 April 2024 at the Headquarters premises with the participation of serving members and their kith and kin of the Headquarters of the Volunteer Force.

Major General MK Jayawardena RSP VSV USP ndu, the Commandant of the Sri Lanka Army Volunteer Force (SLAVF) together with his respected spouse, Mrs. Shammi Jayawardena graced the occasion as the chief guest and they were received by Major General Thusitha Silva KSP, the Deputy Commandant, SLAVF and his spouse, Mrs. Nelum De Silva.

The spirit of aurudu blossomed with cultural formalities, and the distinguished gathering attended in lighting the oil lamp marking the beginning of New Year celebrations. In display of a keen interest in sharing the festive enthusiasm, the gathering took part in traditional events of cadjan weaving, pillow fighting, selection of ‘Awurudu Kumara &Kumariya’, eye placing on the elephant, tug of war, fancy dress parade, musical chair and a number of other traditional games.

Towards the end, the Commandant, SLAVF along with the Deputy Commandant, SLAVF gave away gifts to the winners in different competitions conveying best wishes for a happy and prosperous Sinhala and Tamil New Year. Simultaneously, in appreciating the service of the civil staff serving the SLAVF, gift parcels were awarded by the Commandant, SLAVF during the event. The most fascinated event: the selection of ‘Awurudu Kumara &Kumariya’ of the day was concluded under the patronage of Thilu Bridal Home & Beauty Salon.

The event was attended by Brigadier M MSalwatura RWP RSP USP - Principal Staff Officer, Brigadier W G P Sisira Kumara RSP - Inspector of Training, Brigadier B M R J Bandara - Brigadier Administration, Brigadier B J Lekamge RSP KSP - Security Forces Headquarters (West), sponsors, senior officers, officers and other ranks.