The Sri Lanka Air Force held the annual "Aurudu Udanaya" and "Aurudu Pola", showcasing a rich exhibition of traditional Sri Lankan culture as part of the SLAF’s Sinhala & Hindu New Year Celebrations Programme. The festivities, which were organized by the Directorate of Welfare in collaboration with SLAF Base Katunayake, took place at the Sports Ground of SLAF Base Katunayake today (11 April 2024).

The event was graced by the presence of the Commander of the Sri Lanka Air Force, Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa, along with the Chairperson of the SLAF Seva Vanitha Unit, Mrs. Enoka Rajapaksa. The Chief Guests were welcomed by the Director General of Welfare, Air Vice Marshal Suresh Fernando and the Base Commander of SLAF Base Katunayake, Air Vice Marshal Deshapriya Silva.

A wide array of games were organized during the celebrations, including traditional Avurudu games such as Tug of War and ‘Kotta Pora' which saw participants showcasing their skills and agility. The highlight of the event was the much-anticipated ‘Aurudu Kumara’ and ‘Aurudu Kumariya’ pageants, which saw young contestants dazzle the audience with their beauty, grace and talent.

The event was attended by a significant crowd of officers, airmen, airwomen and civilian staff from the SLAF, along with their families, who enthusiastically participated in the festivities. The "Aurudu Pola" was a special attraction for all, where they could buy a range of products offered at concessionary rates at the outlets operated by SLAF establishments from all over the island.

The Chief of Staff, Deputy Chief of Staff, Members of the Air Force Board of Management and Base Commander of SLAF Base Katunayake, Air Vice Marshal Deshapriya Silva, attended the event along with their spouses.