Ragama (AsiaNews) - Ragama, at the Ranaviru Sevan Institute of Rehabilitation, hundreds of soldiers maimed in the brutal civil war that lasted over 30 years, celebrated the Lunar New Year Tamil and Sinhala (Aluth Avurudda)on April 27. The festival, which lasted from morning to evening, took place in an highly emotional atmosphere as it was the first since the war. The veterans expressed their pride in their sacrifice for the nation, as well as their determination and confidence that they will soon resume their place in society, now that the war is over.
The veterans participated in the traditional New Year games and competitions such as grease pole climbing, pillow fights, tugs of war, balancing, pot cracking, eye-spotting, musical chairs, marathon races, wheelchair races, fancy dress competitions and many others, to the amusement of all. They also participated in the live entertainment such as the concert of the band Ranaviru who played popular melodies.
The 6 km race in a wheelchair was won by a 27 year old soldier, Lasantha Ranweera (pictured), who May 19 2008 lost his right leg on a landmine hidden during a reconnaissance in the area of Periyamadu. He spoke to AsiaNews about his delight at party and recalled how, when he saw his leg severed, he was afraid to die and prayed to Jesus to save him. Now he says he is "proud of having done his duty."
Suranga Silva from Diyathalawa hillside village, a 25 year old Christian, also lost a leg when he thread on a landmine, March 27, 2007 in the area of Welioya. He too greatly enjoyed the event largely organized by the veterans themselves. He says he is happy for the grace to be alive and safe and still able to do many things.
The event gathered together veterans of all faiths. Soldiers of the Buddhist faith P. Asanka of South Hambanthota and G. Wijekoon of Anuradhapura were also delighted by the party and proud to have fought for the nation.
The party was attended by Army Commander Lt. Gen. Jagath Jayasuriya and Mr. Manjulika Jayasuriya, who awarded the winners of competitions and complimented the veterans saying they were "happy and proud of the capabilities demonstrated."
The Centre cares for more than 1200 soldiers with varying degrees of disability, who follow total or partial rehabilitation programs.