Sri lANKA, April 11 -- Avurudu (New Year) presents us with an opportunity to connect with tradition. This is the time of the year when there is a longing to get back home, even if that means driving a distance of over a 100 kilometres. Avurudu is best celebrated at home. Last year, two days before New Year, this writer was at a bus stop and a passenger was seen boarding a crowded bus in a mighty hurry. He just managed to squeeze onto the footboard of the vehicle. He was heard saying, 'The thought of going home gives me all the energy to endure any hardship'. That's the spirit of the New Year!

Unlike on any other occasion, there is so much energy associated with this annual celebration. No stone is left unturned in the task of cleaning an...