Global “Avurudu Kumara and Kumariya of the Year” Pageant Set to Launch, Opening Doors to International Modelling for Lankan Youth

For the first time in history, Sri Lanka will host the World Avurudu Kumara and Kumariya of the Year international pageant, offering local youth a unique platform to enter the global modelling industry while reviving tourism through cultural celebration.

In a move that combines tradition with global opportunity, Sri Lanka is set to host the inaugural World Avurudu Kumara and Kumariya of the Year 2025 pageant. Scheduled to take place from July 20 to 27, the event will culminate with a grand finale on Saturday, July 26 at the Nelum Pokuna Auditorium in Colombo. This landmark event will be held under the patronage of Buddhasasana, Religious & Cultural Affairs Minister Hon. H. M. Senevi, who will serve as the Chief Guest.

The event is expected to attract representatives from 12 countries, all celebrating their versions of the Sinhala and Tamil New Year through this culturally rich beauty and modelling contest. The competition aims not only to create international modelling opportunities for Sri Lankan youth but also to boost tourism and highlight the island’s vibrant traditions, customs, and values.

The title “Avurudu Kumara and Kumariya” holds cultural significance in Sri Lanka, traditionally awarded during Sinhala and Tamil New Year celebrations. In this international pageant format, it will evolve into a global beauty and cultural showcase for young Sri Lankans representing their heritage on an international stage.

The pageant tour will kick off in France on April 13, followed by Romania and the USA on April 16, and continue across 12 countries including Japan, the UK, New Zealand, Canada, Australia, and the UAE, concluding with Sri Lanka’s national event on June 21.

The official launch of the Mega Global Programme took place on April 11 at 3:03 PM, symbolically chosen, in the presence of ambassadors and representatives from participating embassies.

The Cinnamon Grand Hotel in Colombo will serve as the hospitality partner, with General Manager Kamal Munasinghe playing a key role in the event’s execution. The programme is chaired by Dr. Aarosh Fernando, also Senior Advisor to the global project and a member of the Democratic Party of Sri Lanka. Veteran film artist Sangeetha Weeraratne also graced the launch event as a Chief Guest.

This global initiative not only celebrates Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage but also opens exciting pathways for youth into the international fashion and entertainment industries, making it a milestone event for the nation’s tourism and cultural diplomacy efforts.

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