Tsunami Commeration - December 2005

Christmas day we got up and drove to Arugum Bay on the east coast. The Journey took about 8 hrs although we only traveled ~ 200km (125 miles). Harsha had planned two commemoration events there, one Buddhist, and one Hindu. It definetly was a solemn day.

Sunrise from our beach bungalow on the morning of the 26th.

We then headed inland for the Hindu ceremony. This ceremony was filled with colorful ritualism and concluded with a shared meal prepared in a large pot over an open fire, right in front of the temple.

Harsha (Chairman) and Amanda, waiting for the Hindu ceremony to begin.

The Hindu ceremony was very interesting. Although sitting on the floor for 2+ hrs was tough for me.

They were cooking during the entire ceremony and it smelled pretty good. They made a concoction of rice, fruit, sugar, spices, sugar, more fruit..did I mention sugar?