Commit to mutual understanding - President says in Thai Pongal message

CAPTION:  Devotees at Shri Ponnambalawaneswaram Kovil, Kotahena.

In order to achieve the objectives of the Thai Pongal festival, all Sri Lankan citizens must have mutual understanding amongst them, President Gotabaya Rajapaksa stated. 

In his message to mark Thai Pongal festival, the President further stated that "It is important to commit with determination on this auspicious day to firstly implement this decision as an attitude change and secondly to make it a reality."

Below is the full text of the President's message:

I am extremely happy to join with the Sri Lankan Tamil brethren to celebrate the Thai Pongal festival that is being observed with festivities by all Tamils across the world. On the day of Thai Pongal all the people who are engaged in the agricultural sector, worship the sun to express gratitude to the nature and seek blessings.

The new relationship built within the family unit with the dawn of the Thai Pongal, gradually expands to the entire society strengthening harmony. I earnestly believe, through this festival, the social bond filled with the spirit of humanity will further spread between the parents and children, teachers and students, friends and relations, rulers and citizens with strength.

To achieve the objectives of the Thai Pongal festival, all Sri Lankan citizens must have a mutual understanding amongst them. It is important to commit with determination on this auspicious day to firstly implement this decision as an attitude change and secondly to make it a reality.

In a similar manner as light dispels darkness, the disharmony among people could be eliminated through the harmony amongst them. As Sri Lankan citizens we must move forward towards prosperity, based on this principle. All of us must unite to accomplish national goals and I invite all of our Sri Lanka Tamil brothers and sisters living in various countries in the world to perceive Sri Lanka as their Motherland to achieve those objectives.

May this auspicious occasion illuminate your life with noble humanitarian qualities as the Sun dispels darkness and light up our lives. 

Meanwhile religious ceremonies to mark the Thaipongal was held in Hindu temples throughout the country.