The Historic “Kibou Gama” New Year Festival
Unity in Diversity
Kibou International College celebrated the Sinhala and Hindu New Year in a truly unique and meaningful manner, bringing together all ethnic and religious groups within our vibrant Kibou family. To celebrate this auspicious occasion, the school grounds were transformed into “Kibou Gama”—a traditional model village featuring both a Sinhala house and a Tamil house. This exceptional initiative beautifully displayed the profound unity, cooperation, and harmony that define our institution.
A Warm Welcome to Our Honored Guest: Japanese Film Director Mr. Yoshikazu Hara
We were deeply privileged and honored to welcome our distinguished special guest, acclaimed Japanese film director Mr. Yoshikazu Hara (Hara Sensei), who traveled from Japan to join our festivities. Captivated by the rich cultural displays, Hara Sensei thoroughly enjoyed the vibrant proceedings of the day alongside our dedicated teachers, supportive parents, and enthusiastic students. Experiencing firsthand the warmth and hospitality of the country, his presence added a wonderful element of international friendship to our united school community.
Sacred Traditions at the Sinhala House
A major highlight of the festival was the authentic conduction of time-honored rituals. At the Sinhala house, students and faculty strictly observed sacred customs to welcome the New Year. The atmosphere was filled with blessings during the chanting of Seth Pirith, the symbolic lighting of the traditional oil lamp, and the auspicious boiling of milk. The day was further enriched by paying heartfelt respect to elders, playing the rhythmic raban, and visiting the temple together.
Sacred Traditions at the Tamil House
Mirroring the beautiful customs of our community, the Tamil house conducted its sacred New Year rituals with immense pride and joy. Supported by their peers from all backgrounds, the students engaged in traditional practices, including a meaningful visit to the Kovil, showing deep respect to elders, and showcasing the rich heritage of Tamil culture. This inclusive celebration allowed the entire school family to learn, participate, and honor these beautiful traditions together.
A Beautiful Symbol of Friendship and Religious Unity
In the most touching moment of the day, members of the Sinhala house formally visited the Tamil house to celebrate together. Traditional New Year sweetmeats and festive food items were joyfully exchanged between the students, beautifully demonstrating the deep friendship, mutual respect, and unbreakable unity shared among all religions and cultures at Kibou International College.
High-Energy Traditional Games & Cultural Dances
The school grounds came alive with immense laughter and excitement as students enthusiastically participated in a rich variety of time-honored traditional games. From strategic matches of Olinda Keliya and Pancha Demima to high-energy rounds of Kabadi and the thrilling Pillow Fight, our students showcased incredible sportsmanship. Alongside these cultural traditions, a wonderful selection of fun games was specially organized for the younger children, ensuring that every single member of the Kibou family shared in the joy of the day.
The festive energy reached its peak with spectacular cultural performances, where students gracefully performed traditional Sinhala and Tamil dances, alongside lively enactments of Eluwan Kema and Mewara Sellama.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the organizing committee, all the school staff, parents, and students who poured their dedication into reviving these beautiful traditions. May the harmony and joy of this New Year remain with the Kibou International College family throughout the year ahead !