Vibrant April

April showers brought in smiles to everyone who were eagerly awaiting her arrival. After a lengthy spell of dust,we all sighed a heave of relief,when the heavenly skies showered her blessings in this part of the kingdom.I am still enthused by this absolute sensation.The whole atmosphere took a dramatic turn. And we felt it instantly.We  had enough of the dust and the pollution which brought nothing but despondent moments for the children.Their immune system were clogged with the seasonal flu symptoms and they were stuck at home for most of the time.On the other hand since the children had a break from school ,they had sufficient time to rest and recover.

It is interesting to note that April is firmly deemed a season  full of energy,colour and life. It stimulates every living thing on earth.Flowers bloom and trees begin to get back their lush green appearances. And at this time of the month the sky is undeniably clear and blue.It’s awe-inspiring to see the birds,especially the pigeons perched on the window sill or the balcony railing making noise, possibly singing a sweet song or whispering sweet nothings.April is also the time when butterflies and the bees buzz around suckling the sweetness of the blossoms. When darkness falls, a pleasant breeze sweeps across the corniche and families love to spend their time taking pleasure from the warmth of Spring.

April makes me nostalgic and brings in a lot of memories.It takes me to a place closest to my heart, yet so far-off. In my Home country,Sri Lanka,April is rendered promising to both the Sinhalese and the Tamil people, who consider this month as the beginning of the New Year.Hence,April is celebrated according to auspicious times and astrological calculations.The festival also coincides with one of the paddy harvest seasons and is regarded as the festival of harvest among the farming communities.

The melodious call of the cuckoo bird during this season tells us that the new year is fast approaching.In Sinhalese tradition, the cuckoo or the Koha,as it is commonly known in SriLanka, has a strong association with the new year.The breeding season of the bird coincides with the festive season. And as a consequence, the mating call of the male bird is regarded as a sign that the New year is coming up.

For days the community works round the clock in preparation for the Sinhala /Tamil New Year.How could one  resist the aroma wafting through the kitchens into the neighbouring homes.As children we all looked forward to eat oil cakes,a variety of scrumptious delicacies made from juggery,treacle and coconut which were brought home by our neighbourhood friends.And the mouth watering Kiribath a special dish made with rice and coconut milk is a favourite and enjoyed by all the communities living in Sri Lanka.

Happy New Year To My Native Folks!