Sri Lankan New Year brings communities together in Luton
Nearly 200 people attended the third Luton Sri Lankan New Year celebration, organised last weekend by an upcoming local community organization, the Luton Sri Lankans Welfare Association (LSLWA).
The event brought together families, children, and guests from diverse backgrounds to celebrate Sri Lankan culture, heritage, and unity.
Attendees enjoyed a rich programme of traditional music, dance performances, colourful cultural costumes, fun games for children, and delicious Sri Lankan food, with warm hospitality.
Religious leaders from the Letchworth Dhamma Nikethanaya Buddhist Temple graced the occasion and extended the traditional greeting Ayubowan – wishing everyone a long and happy life. The Venerable Akurala Bhante Samitha welcomed all and commended the LSLWA for its vital role in fostering a strong, supportive community environment, particularly for children growing up away from their homeland.
He emphasised the importance of maintaining emotional and cultural connections to one’s roots to nurture responsible citizens and harmonious communities. Reflecting on Sri Lanka’s 3,000-year-old civilisation, he highlighted traditional values of unity, gratitude to nature, strong family ties, and community-based celebrations bringing people of all backgrounds together.
He offered blessings for peace, happiness, and a prosperous Sri Lankan New Year for all.
The event was hosted by the Catholic Church of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus in Stopsley. The Parish Priest Rev Fr Allan R Jones CRIC warmly welcomed all and reflected on the New Year as a universal time for renewal, reflection, and hope. Acknowledging that different cultures celebrate New Year at different times, he stressed the shared purpose of learning from the past while embracing the future.
Bedfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner John Tizard praised the celebration as an excellent example of cultural pride and contribution, highlighting Luton’s diversity of heritage and faith. He applauded the Sri Lankan community for celebrating their culture while respecting others, reinforcing unity, peace, and mutual respect. He also reaffirmed the police commitment to equal protection for all.
Deputy Mayor of Luton, Cllr Shahanara Naser, also recognised the LSLWA’s strong community impact, particularly its focus on empowering young people through inclusive activities that build confidence, leadership, and social responsibility, contributing to safer, more connected neighbourhoods.
The celebration concluded on a joyful note, wishing all Sri Lankans in Luton a very Happy and Prosperous New Year.