On April 25, 2026, the Kothmale West Divisional
Secretariat celebrated a beautiful milestone in workplace culture by
organizing its first-ever official Bakmaha Ulela (Sinhala and Tamil New Year
Festival). Held at the spacious Kothmale Buddharaja Vidyalaya Grounds,
the festival brought a vibrant, festive spirit to the region, stepping outside
the traditional office walls to honor Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.
This historic maiden event was designed not only as a
cultural celebration but also as a welfare initiative to appreciate the
hardworking public servants of the Secretariat, bringing together all
institutional officers along with their family members for a day of joy and
camaraderie.
Strengthening Bonds Beyond the Workplace
Public service demands continuous dedication, and the Bakmaha
Ulela provided a perfect opportunity for officers to unwind, connect, and
strengthen their interpersonal bonds. By inviting families into the
institutional circle, the event fostered a strong sense of an extended
"Secretariat Family," boosting staff morale and unity.
The festival grounds came alive with laughter, traditional
music, and competitive spirit as both adults and children enthusiastically
participated in a wide array of time-honored Sinhala and Tamil New Year games.
Highlights of Traditional Festivities
The day featured a diverse lineup of traditional events that
showcased team spirit and cultural pride:
- Traditional
Games: Classic
events such as Kana Mutti Bidima (breaking the clay pot), Gami
Pura Avurudu Kumariya & Kumaraya (New Year Pageant), sack races,
and tug-of-war brought out healthy competitive energy among the branches.
- Family
Inclusion:
Special races and fun activities were organized for the children and
spouses of the staff, ensuring everyone felt included in the celebrations.
- Avurudu
Kevili Table:
Participants enjoyed a traditional feast featuring authentic sweetmeats
like Kavum, Kokis, and Kiribath, celebrating the
culinary heritage of the season.
A Milestone for Institutional Welfare
The Kothmale West Divisional Secretariat believes that an
interconnected, happy workforce is the foundation of excellent public service.
The resounding success of this inaugural New Year festival sets a wonderful
precedent for the future, establishing a new tradition of work-life balance and
cultural appreciation within our administration.
"Our first-ever Bakmaha Ulela was a spectacular success,
reflecting the harmony and unity of our team. We extend our heartfelt thanks to
the management of Kothmale Buddharaja Vidyalaya for providing the venue, the
organizing committee for their tireless efforts, and all the families whose
presence made this day truly unforgettable."
