The message said: "Thai Pongal is a time to celebrate the bountiful harvest and the dawn of the New Year with the blessings of the Sun.

"It is also an occasion to offer thanks for the blessings of the sun, rain and acknowledge and thank the contribution of the farm animals towards obtaining an abundant harvest. It also signifies the optimum partnership the farmers maintain with elements of nature towards a harmonious co-existence.

"At a time when all Sri Lankans are able to hold their heads high and celebrate their diversity and their identity, secure in their freedom and rights as citizens of one nation, Thai Pongal reminds us of the need to live our lives with gratitude and stay conscious of the need to co-exist in harmony with nature and with one another."