Nearly two hundred people attended the third Luton Sri Lankan (Sinhalese) New Year celebrations held last weekend by an upcoming local community organisation Luton Sri Lankans Welfare Association (LSLWA). Families and children took part in the numerous cultural activities and fun games. The guests from different communities and organisations were treated with Sri Lankan cultural music, dance performances & delicious food.
The religious leaders from the Letchworth Dhamma Nikethanaya Buddhist Temple graced the occasion and wished everyone 'Ayubowan' – Sinhalese greeting meaning you may have a long and happy life. The Venerable Akurala Bhante Samitha welcomed all and praised the Luton Sri Lankan Welfare Association for creating a strong community environment, especially for children growing up away from homeland. He emphasised the importance of staying emotionally and culturally connected to one’s roots to develop good citizens and harmonious communities. He highlighted Sri Lanka’s rich 3,000-year history, and cultural heritage, that reflects the 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.
As a host, Rev Fr Allan R Jones CRIC, the Parish Priest at the Catholic Church of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, Stopsley, warmly welcomed everyone to the venue and reflected on the meaning of the New Year as a universal time of renewal, reflection, and looking forward. Acknowledging that New Years are celebrated at different times across cultures, he emphasised the shared purpose of carrying forward the best of the past while embracing hope for the future, echoing the words of Pope Francis. On behalf of the parish community, he offered heartfelt good wishes for the Sri Lankan New Year celebrations and reaffirmed appreciation for everyone’s presence.
The event was also attended by The Bedfordshire Police & Crime Commissioner John Tizard, who praised the celebration as a wonderful reflection of cultural pride and contribution, highlighting the town and county’s rich diversity of heritage and faith. He commended the Sri Lankan community for confidently celebrating their own culture and beliefs while also showing respect for those of others, helping to build a unified, respectful Luton. He acknowledged Sri Lanka’s long history, its past struggles, and the strength of its people in overcoming challenges, emphasising how a 3,000-year-old culture continues to thrive in modern life. He reflected on shared values of peace, and standing against violence and division, both locally and globally. He reassured that everyone—regardless of faith or heritage—is entitled to equal respect and protection from the Bedfordshire Police, and invited all to work together to build a safer, better community.
The Deputy Mayor of Luton Councillor Shahanara Naser highlighted how the Luton Sri Lankans Welfare Association has become a strong example of community spirit, successfully bringing people together, strengthening neighbourhood ties, and fostering a sense of belonging across diverse communities. She gave special recognition to the focus on empowering young people by creating inclusive opportunities for them to engage in community activities, build confidence, and develop leadership skills. She said this would help to shape responsible individuals while also contributing to safer, more connected neighbourhoods.
There were lots of children’s games, cultural costume display, traditional food and a great welcome and hospitality for all.
Wishing all Sri Lankans in Luton, a very Happy New Year!
