Colombo:
On the auspicious occasion of Thai Pongal, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya extends her warm greetings to the Tamil people in Sri Lanka and across the global diaspora. In her message, the Prime Minister reflects on the deep cultural and spiritual significance of the harvest festival, which celebrates gratitude to nature, honours the dignity of labour, and highlights the inseparable bond between human life and the natural world. She also calls upon all citizens to draw inspiration from the values embodied in Thai Pongal as the nation advances towards renewal, harmony, and shared prosperity.
I extend my heartfelt greetings to the Tamil people in Sri Lanka and abroad who celebrate the Thai Pongal festival, a proud tradition that expresses gratitude for the dignity of labour and the protection bestowed by nature.
This noble festivity demonstrates to the world the inseparable bond between human life and nature. We are all creations of nature. There is no path we can take in defiance of nature or beyond it. In that sense, showing respect and gratitude in return for the blessings we receive from nature can be regarded as one of the highest human virtues.
As a nation, we stand today at a decisive turning point. We bear a collective responsibility to steer the country towards a new era of revival, bringing about a transformation in attitudes through policy and structural reforms. As a government, we have accepted this responsibility and have embarked with determination on a new year dedicated to the advancement of our nation, even amidst numerous challenges.
As the saying goes, “We can place rice on our plate only if the farmer steps into the mud,” the commitment we make today for the future prosperity of the country is akin to preparing fertile fields in anticipation of a bountiful harvest. This Thai Pongal festival, which honours and expresses gratitude to nature, serves as a guiding light in nurturing citizens enriched with strong cultural values.
On this Thai Pongal Day, let us all resolve together to build a new Sri Lanka, upholding harmony and noble qualities such as mutual respect and the protection of the religious and cultural rights of others.
I sincerely extend my wishes that all the hopes and aspirations of the Tamil people celebrating Thai Pongal may be fulfilled, and that this new beginning may bring happiness and prosperity to everyone.
Dr. Harini Amarasuriya
Prime Minister
Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka