January is always the month of welcome. It calls for some new beginnings where we tend to talk about resolutions among other whatnot. The first month of the Gregorian calendar borrows its name from Janus, the Roman god of beginnings and transitions. Janus hyas two faces: one past-ward and the other to future-ward. Following Janus, the month also brings two occasions to celebrate: Duruthu Poya and Thai Pongal. Duruthu Poya is observed on January 13 this time and Thai Pongal is celebrated on January 14.
Both festivals, interestingly, fall on holidays following the weekend this year. So to say, the two days offer an opportunity to welcome spirituality as well as festivity. It gives us a moment to take a break, and make use of that very break to reconnect with traditions. In other words, it is an opportunity to celebrate life’s blessings with family, friends, and the larger community.
For Buddhists, Duruthu Poya offers an invitation to reflect on the teachings of the Buddha. The devotees who observe Sil opt to meditate centred on personal growth and peace. For Hindus, Thai Pongal is the period to express gratitude for nature’s abundance.
Buddhist activities
Buddhist devotees who opt out of observing sill make it a point to visit temples, light oil lamps, and engage in acts of generosity such as offering food to monks and those in need. Sil observation is also another practice usually reserved for the elderly (and wise, probably) who meditate, read spiritual text, listen to Dhamma talk while following precepts for moral discipline.
Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara plays a prominent role in this backdrop. It is the temple associated with the Buddha’s first visit to Sri Lanka. The devotees decorate the premises with elaborate decorations and ceremonies. Many thousands of devotees at temples across the country participate in Bodhi Poojas (offerings to the sacred Bodhi tree) and listen to sermons on the Buddha’s teachings.
The Duruthu Maha Perahera procession must not be overlooked.The Peraherafeatures traditional dancers, whip-crackers, and elephants dressed in ornate garments. It is a visual spectacle.
Duruthu Poya marks the Buddha’s first visit to the island in the ninth month after his Enlightenment. Buddhist lore has it that the visit to Mahiyanganaya aimed to resolve conflicts among local tribes—the Yakkhas and the Nagas—and promote conflict resolution.
Thai Pongal purification
As for Thai Pongal, it is the opportunity for Tamil Hindu families to start the day by cleaning their homes which symbolises purification and renewal for the new year.The preparation of Pongal rice involves a communal effort. The act of letting the milk boil over represents abundance and prosperity.Kolam designs, patterns made of rice flour become a common sight at homes and public spaces as blessings for harmony and good fortune.The festival emphasises gratitude to Surya (the Sun God), seen as the source of life and sustenance.
Pongal dish is a key element of the festival. It is made with freshly harvested rice, jaggery, and milk, this dish is offered to the Sun God before being shared among family members. The act of cooking the Pongal outdoors on a clay pot establishes the connection with nature.
Mattu Pongal occurs on the second day.Farmers honour their cattle by washing and decorating them with garlands, turmeric, and bells. The third day is reserved for Kaanum Pongal, a time for social visits and community bonding, emphasizing the importance of relationships.
All this – Duruthu Poya, Thai Pongal, and Janus – call for common essence: gratitude among other important elements. Duruthu Poya encourages spiritual reflection.Thai Pongal highlights the symbiotic relationship between humans and nature.Janus, the god of transitions, ties these themes together.
These traditions inspire us to cultivate a balance between inner peace and communal joy.
Busy world
Apologies for reminding that we are in a world dominated by technology and busy schedules (it has become the hackneyed norm). Even in such a world, the occasional advent of Duruthu Poya and Thai Pongal serve to remind us to slow down and connect with nature.
The connection can happen in three ways: individuals, families and communities. An individual has a moment to reflect, realign personal goals, and renew spiritual practices at the start of the year.The holidays provide a chance to strengthen bonds for families – be it through shared meals, prayers, or festive activities. As for communities, the processions, communal cooking, and cultural performances play an instrumental role.
Let us perhaps make this our new year resolution or may it be the resolve that lasts throughout this year.
Sachitra Mahendra