Sri Lanka Air Force Avurudu Pola and Bakmaha Ulela, an annual events organized by the Directorate of Welfare in collaboration with SLAF Seva Vanitha Unit and SLAF Station Colombo was held today (11 April 2016) at the ‘Rifle Green’ Grounds of SLAF Station Colombo as a part of the SLAF’s Sinhala & Hindu New Year Celebrations Programme.

The Commander of the Sri Lanka Air Force, Air Marshal Gagan Bulathsinghala graced the Avurudu pola and Bakmaha Ulela  with the Chairperson of SLAF Seva Vanitha Unit Mrs.Samanthi Bulathsinghala as the Chief Guest. The event was launched after the lighting of the traditional oil lamp.

A range of games were organized at the celebrations, including a traditional Avurudu games such as ‘Pancha Keliya’, ‘Kotta Pora’, ‘Kana Mutti’ and tug-of-war. Much anticipated ‘Avurudu Kumaraya’ and the ‘Avurudu Kumariya’ pageants also staged at the celebrations.

Members of the AFBM and Commanding Officer of SLAF Station Colombo Air Commodore Prasanna Payoe were present at the programme.

Officers, Airmen, Airwomen and Civilian Staff of Sri Lanka Air Force attended the Avurudu Pola and the Bakmaha Ulela  along with their family members. They were seen happily buying various products offered at concessionary rates at the outlets operated by SLAF establishments from all over the country.

‘Avurudu Kumaraya’ and the ‘Avurudu Kumari’ pageants also staged at the celebrations. The winners received their prizes from the Commander of the Air Force, Air Marshal Gagan  Bulathsinghala and Chairperson of the SLAF Seva Vanitha Unit Mrs.Samanthi Bulathsinghala.

Apart from the main Aurudu Program at SLAF station Colombo,'' Bakmaha Ulela '' were held in all SLAF establishments with the participation of respective Base Commanders and Commanding Officers.