As Christmas and New Year approach, Sri Lanka finds itself in the midst of economic uncertainty, grappling with the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic and political turmoil in 2022. The island nation, known for its vibrant culture and warm celebrations, is facing unique challenges as citizens strive to embrace the festive spirit despite the prevailing inflation.
The economic downturn that Sri Lanka has experienced since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic has been exacerbated by political instability in 2022. As a result, the cost of living has soared, and families across the country are feeling the pinch.
Despite these challenges, the resilient spirit of the people shines through as they endeavour to celebrate the holidays with joy and unity.
Traditional Christmas festivities in Sri Lanka often include decorating homes, attending church services, and sharing festive meals with loved ones.
However, this year, families are finding creative ways to celebrate on a tight budget. Homemade decorations and simple yet meaningful gatherings are becoming the norm, reflecting the determination of communities to find joy in the midst of adversity.
Gift-giving, a cherished Christmas tradition, has also taken on a new meaning. Instead of extravagant presents, many are opting for thoughtful and practical gifts.
Handmade items and locally sourced products are gaining popularity, not only as a way to support local businesses but also as a response to the economic challenges faced by the nation.
The New Year, traditionally a time of hope and renewal, is met with cautious optimism in Sri Lanka.
Economic recovery is a slow process, and citizens are embracing a mindset of resilience and adaptation.
As the clock strikes midnight, Sri Lankans will welcome the New Year with a collective determination to overcome challenges and build a brighter future.
Community support and solidarity play a crucial role during these trying times.
Neighbours and friends are reaching out to one another, sharing resources, and finding comfort in unity.
The spirit of togetherness, a cornerstone of Sri Lankan culture, is proving to be a source of strength as the nation navigates through economic uncertainties.
We reached out to a few community members to see how they are celebrating Christmas and the New Year.
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Susantha Priyanka:
My family is looking forward to celebrating Christmas this year. We have had a very tough year and with the new Budget coming in there is no hope that we can celebrate next year. So we are going all out with the gifts, the Christmas Day dinner and everything. I am sad I cannot provide some of the Christmas goodies that my children may like but I am trying my best.
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Nivedha Hariharan:
Times are really tough right now but I am excited to celebrate Christmas and New Year with my family. It is a season of giving and showing love to our families and the community. I plan on helping whoever is struggling at this time of year and spread joy.
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Shehani Ahinsa:
I am a day wage earner and I am struggling to put food on the table for three meals a day. Christmas or New Year, we are in a daily struggle.
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Sandun:
This season, many families are grappling with the harsh reality of financial struggles, making the prospect of celebrating Christmas and New Year a daunting challenge. The economic downturn due to the Covid-19 pandemic and political upheavals, has tightened budgets and limited resources. Everything is very expensive so it is a difficult choice of allocating scarce funds for celebrations. Despite these hardships, our people are very resilient and I personally think after a few very difficult years they deserve to celebrate.
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Lal Silva:
It’s really tough during this economic crisis. I have tried my best to share some holiday cheer with my kids but it’s not possible to be as grand as we’d like. But we’re also using this occasion as a learning opportunity. To learn that while we love to receive gifts during Christmas, it’s important to learn to be grateful for what we have and think of those less unfortunate. But it’s not out of choice, it’s because we’re struggling.
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Prabalini George:
The economic situation in Sri lanka is such that daily life is so expensive, let alone festive celebrations. I guess that is the nature of inflation. But people seem to be trying their best to celebrate Christmas and New Year to the best of their ability. I hope everyone has a great Christmas.
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Shanaka Silva:
I don’t think people have the money or the mental state to celebrate these days. Have you seen the price of 500 gms of onions? I feel like Sri Lankan people can’t get a break. It is a very sad situation.
