VOICES OF JOY
Celebrating Avurudu with beautiful souls
Avurudu is more than just a celebration, where people come together to reaffirm their connections through acts of generosity and compassion. In this spirit Edith Cowan University (ECU) Sri Lanka came forward to make a difference by celebrating Avurudu with 120 lovely souls in Victoria Home for incurables which was established in 1888, to commemorate the coronation jubilee of Queen Victoria.
Residents of Victoria Home, and ECU staff gathered to inaugurate the festivities by lighting the traditional oil lamp and opening the Avurudu table which symbolises the start of the celebrations.
“Our goal was to spread joy and happiness among those who needed it the most” expressed the Dean, Dr. Sajani Dias.
The residents had the opportunity to celebrate the event adding vibrant colours to the occasion. There were good singers and dancers. They danced with grace and spirit showing that they are not disabled but differently abled. The inmates here are facing a great deal of difficulty and loneliness. A lot of them have to spend most of their days in bed, relying on help for even the most basic tasks.
In addition to these hardships, they don't have many opportunities for meaningful communication or emotional expression, and they have very few companions to share their thoughts and feelings with.
“Do you happen to have a video recording of me singing?” One asks us innocently. A simple word of appreciation seems to uplift his soul immensely.
Apart from this event the residents were presented with Avurudu gifts and essential items. The smile on their faces as
The Victoria Home is a shining example of a well-maintained and efficiently run facility. The matrons and nurses selflessly dedicate themselves to their work, motivated not by financial gain, but by their compassionate hearts and unwavering commitment to serving those in need.
they received gifts was truly a sight to witness.
Outside the ward, Soma is embroidering a beautiful handkerchief. “This is a farewell gift for our cross-stitching tutor”, explains Soma. Every stitch is a silent plea for the tutors return. It is a testament to their beating hearts, even in the face of many struggles in life.
The Victoria Home is a shining example of a well-maintained and efficiently run facility. The matrons and nurses selflessly dedicate themselves to their work, motivated not by financial gain, but by their compassionate hearts and unwavering commitment to serving those in need.
Under the Bo tree was an elderly resident gazing fondly at the singing and dancing crowd. “Today, you children have given these remarkable individuals a reason to smile and brightened their day. It is indeed a blessing for you all. Never forget the power of kindness and the impact it has on others. Keep spreading joy and positivity wherever you go” he said to us.
An invitation is extended to all with lovely souls to share in the richness of their lives by offering even a moment of your valuable time. We may not be able to cure the incurable. There is only one remedy left. Spread love and spare some time for them. Let them know that they are not forgotten; let them feel that they are part of us too.