Avurudhu at Army Headquarters
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Army Commander Lieutenant General Sarath Fonseka and Anoma
Fonseka light the traditional oil lamp at the ceremony |
The festival atmosphere in the country on account of the Sinhala and
Tamil New Year prevailed in the Army grounds at the Army Headquarters
throughout yesterday morning when soldiers and officers serving Colombo
got together to mark the occasion by celebrating the New Year festival.
Army Commander Lieutenant General Sarath Fonseka attended the
festival as chief guest.
The hoisting of the National and Army flags by the Commander and the
Chief of Staff respectively signaled the official commencement of the
event. All senior officers at the Army Headquarters, including the Chief
of Staff Major General G.A Chandrasiri, Seva Vanitha Army Branch (SVAB)
President Anoma Fonseka and senior members of the SVAB, officers, other
ranks and civil staff members serving the Army headquarters
participated.
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The tug of war competition in progress. Pictures courtesy Army Media Unit. |
Cadjan weaving, bun eating, pillow-fights, raban playing, grease pole
climbing, selection of the Princes of the New Year, placing the eye on
the Elephant, lime balancing, tug of war, fancy dress parade and a
number of other traditional games were highlighted at the occasion.
At the end of the festival, Lieutenant General Sarath Fonseka and
Mrs. Fonseka gave away gifts and trophies to winners in different
competitions.
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