Following is the message from Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena on the occasion of Thai Pongal:
“Thai Pongal, which is a national festival showcasing the excellence of Hindu culture that inherits an agricultural economy, embodies the core values based on peace, unity, and compassion.
“This harvest festival, during which the Tamil farmers, having a belief in the traditional lifestyle that is bound with nature, extend their gratitude to the Sun for a rich harvest, will be a reflection of the lifeblood of the nation.
“I extend my greetings to the people all over the world who are celebrating the Thai Pongal festival, marking the dawn of a prosperous new year in which expectations are fulfilled.”