Sri Lanka, Jan. 15 -- Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa extended his heartfelt wishes to Tamil communities across Sri Lanka and worldwide "wishing everyone a meaningful celebration of this cultural festival, with a true understanding of the spirit of Thai Pongal."

"The Thai Pongal festival teaches us gratitude and reminds us that nature, and even livestock, deserves our love, compassion, and respect." he remarked.

Premadasa further noted that many of the natural disasters and conflicts arise from the distortion of nature and human mind, and the festival offers an opportunity to reflect on the deeper meaning behind its cultural rituals and the values they promote.

He further stressed the importance of delivering this vision and philoso...