2012 New Year Celebration at Heathrow

2012 New Year Celebration at Heathrow Athula Dassana International Buddhist Vihara

The Athula Dassana International Buddhist Vihara successfully organized a vibrant Sri Lankan New Year Celebration for children on 22nd April 2012 at Hounslow Lampton School. The event brought together the Sri Lankan community in the UK, creating a festive atmosphere filled with cultural traditions, games, and blessings for the New Year.

A Grand Opening Ceremony

The celebration commenced with a warm welcome by Venerable Wanduramba Kassapa Thero, Head of the Vihara, who delivered an inspiring lecture on “The Most Valuable Asset of a Parent is Their Child.”

The Chief Guest, H.E. Dr. Chris Nonis, Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner for the UK & Ireland, performed the traditional lighting of the oil lamp and raised the Sri Lankan flag, accompanied by the singing of the National Anthem. Also in attendance was Mr. Chaminda Kularathna, Minister Counsellor & Immigration Officer of the Sri Lankan High Commission, further signifying the event’s importance.

In his address, H.E. Dr. Nonis expressed his admiration for the successful organization of the festival, recognizing the dedication of Ven. Wanduramba Kassapa Thero in preserving Sri Lankan culture for children growing up in the UK.

Traditional New Year Festivities

The celebration featured a variety of traditional Sri Lankan New Year games, organized under the guidance of Mr. Bandara Wakadapola with the support of young volunteers. Children eagerly participated in games such as:

• Breaking the clay pot (blindfolded)
• Sack race
• Spotting the elephant’s eye
• Balloon blowing competition
• Pillow fights
• Guessing the number of seeds in a papaya

The enthusiasm extended to adults as well, with five additional games conducted upon popular request.

All attendees were treated to a Sri Lankan New Year feast, enjoying traditional delicacies such as Kaum, Kokis, and Kiribath.

Prize Giving Ceremony and Distinguished Guests

The prize-giving ceremony commenced at 2:30 PM, with guests being led to the audience hall to the sound of ceremonial drums.

The Chief Guest for the awards ceremony was Mr. H.M.K. Herath, Head of the Educational and Cultural Division. Other distinguished guests included:

• Reverend Father Rohitha Rodrigo (Willesden Green Church)
• Chief Police Inspector Robert Wilson
• Councillor Mohindar Gill
• Mr. Nalin Perera (Promotion Officer, Sri Lanka Tourist Board)
• Ms. Gracery Premachandra (Manager, SriLankan Airlines)
• Solicitor Miss Soorya Samarasinge

Following the lighting of the oil lamp, prizes were presented to the winners by the esteemed guests.

Acknowledgments and Contributions

A special thank you was extended to the team behind the event, including:

• Commentators: Dilini Godamunnage, Maheshi Kokila, Gayan Mahavatta, Sugath Senavirathne, and Thisara Priyantha
• Sound Management: Amal Edirasooriya
• Photography & Videography: Rohan Herath and Kasun De Silva
• Advertising & Computer Design: Disan Nanayakkara & Rukshan Anjana

Sponsors & Media Support

The event was proudly co-sponsored by:

• Atlas Shipping
• VMD Solicitors
• Paradise Travel & Tours Ltd.

Publicity & Media Coverage by:

• News Lanka
• Sesatha.co.uk
• Col3negoriginal
• Serendib News
• LakvishanTV
• Lanka Puwath

A Heartfelt New Year Wish

As the event concluded, Ven. Wanduramba Kassapa Thero extended his heartfelt blessings to all, wishing everyone a Happy & Prosperous New Year!