Historic Hotel Launches Week-Long Cultural Festivities with Opening of Traditional Kavili Kadé

The iconic Mount Lavinia Hotel launched its “Avurudu Maha Gedara 2025” celebration in spectacular fashion recently with the opening of a traditional Kavili Kadé (sweetmeat shop) that will welcome visitors until April 13th. The grand opening event transformed the historic property into a vibrant celebration of Sri Lankan culture and tradition, drawing guests from all walks of life.

The evening featured a rich tapestry of cultural performances including Sinhala and Tamil traditional dancing, singing, Village Chief and Wife mask act, Salu Paliya, Pus Wedi (fireworks display), Rraban (traditional drum performances), and flower-decorated swings created an authentic village atmosphere.

Visitors were treated to demonstrations of live kokis and kavum making, traditional yaara tea, piti keteema, and kalu dodol preparation. A bustling marketplace showcased eco-friendly, locally made products including homeware, clothing, paintings, and vegan goods, highlighting the hotel’s commitment to sustainable practices and supporting local artisans.

“Mount Lavinia Hotel is not merely an accommodation – it is a destination unto itself,” said Anura Dewapura, Chief Operating Officer of Mount Lavinia Hotel Group, addressing the gathering. “Our ambition extends beyond these walls – we are committed to establishing Mount Lavinia city as a premier destination with its beach and remarkable historical significance.”

The event was attended by representatives from all four main religions in Sri Lanka, hotel guests, corporate partners, key opinion leaders, travel industry representatives, designers, celebrities, and media personnel. Media Secretary for the Prime Minister, Ms. Vijitha Sri Bhawan, provided insights on New Year celebrations from a Tamil & Hindu perspective, emphasizing the cultural diversity embraced by the festivities.

The concept of “Avurudu Maha Gedara” perfectly embodies Mount Lavinia Hotel’s role as a cultural cornerstone in the community. Just as the traditional village ancestral home welcomes extended families during New Year celebrations, the historic hotel opens its doors to all Sri Lankans and international visitors wishing to experience authentic New Year traditions.

“May you spread love, laughter, and togetherness wherever you go, this season” Mr. Dewapura concluded. “In these times, there is no greater gift we can offer than the sense of belonging that a true home provides.”