A New Year forged in unity, not circumstance

Sri Lanka stepped into the New Year 2026 not under clear skies, but amid the lingering impact of Cyclone Ditwah.

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Homes were damaged, livelihoods disrupted and entire communities were once again reminded of the island's vulnerability to forces beyond human control. Yet, as midnight passed and calendars turned, what defined the nation was not despair, but hope-quiet, determined and shared.

Across the country, celebrations were subdued but deeply meaningful. Places of worship opened their doors for prayers of safety and renewal. Families gathered not merely to mark another year, but to check on neighbours, share food and extend help where it was most urgently needed. In areas affected by the cyclone, the sense of unity was palpable. It was not manufactured or politically driven; it emerged instinctively from the people themselves.

Within days, donations poured in from every corner of the island. Schoolchildren parted with savings, professionals pledged portions of their income and businesses stepped forward with resources and manpower. Civil society, youth groups and religious institutions mobilised swiftly. In a country still grappling with economic strain, this generosity carried even greater weight. It was a reminder that while material resources may be limited, compassion in Sri Lanka remains abundant.