Sri Lanka marks the dawn of the Sinhala and Tamil New Year today, as the sun transitions from Meena Rashiya (Pisces) to Mesha Rashiya (Aries) at 9:32 a.m., symbolizing the beginning of a new year rooted in tradition and cultural heritage.

The Punya Kaalaya, or auspicious period, began at 3:08 a.m., during which people were encouraged to refrain from worldly activities and engage in religious observances until 3:56 p.m.

Key rituals of the day include lighting the hearth and preparing the first meal at 10:51 a.m., with families traditionally dressed in red and facing south while cooking milk rice, sweets, and curd.

The symbolic boiling of milk, representing prosperity and good fortune, remains central to the celebrations.

The New Year rituals conclude with the commencement of work, financial transactions, and the first meal at 12:06 p.m., as families gather to mark a fresh beginning for the year ahead.