Shopping, fun and frolic at Visakha Avurudu Pola

Kathya de Silva

Visakha Vidyalaya Avurudu Pola organised by the school’s Old Girls’ Association (OGA) was held on a grand scale for the 27th consecutive year on Saturday (March 30) drawing a massive crowd both young and old to the school premises.

The pola was inaugurated by Chief Guest Chamari Jayaratne, Chairperson of Jayaratne Florists who is also a past student. It was also attended by school Principal and OGA President Sandamali Aviruppola, Joint Secretaries Renuka Dharmadasa (Avurudu Pola Chairperson) and Darshi Neelawathura Bandara, Deputy Principals, past Principals, OGA members and others.

Over 135 stalls selling a variety of items from garments, jewellery and sarees to plants, pottery, books and handicrafts left shopping enthusiasts wondering around the school for hours. There was no scarcity of food either as food stalls were set up in every corner which included short eats, hot dogs, cup cakes, sweets, noodles, donuts and all sorts of ice creams which were in high demand especially due to the warm weather.

The pola provided a great opportunity to carry out seasonal avurudu shopping, not only for those celebrating the Sinhala and Hindu New Year but also for all others as clothing items were sold at lesser prices than outside. Old friends were able to catch up and walk around the classrooms and share memories. The Horror House was a special attraction where the young and old waited patiently in long queues to get in. Children had a fun time too at the Kiddies’ Corner which included a merry-go-round and play house. Face painting and games were also included. The Visakha Avurudu Pola had anything and everything, making it a most memorable day of the year for all.

Pictures by Nissanka Wijeratne