Preparations have begun at the destroyed LTTE cemetery in Vannivilankulam, Mullaitivu District, ahead of the 2025 Great Heroes Day commemoration next month, as volunteers gathered this morning to honour fallen Tamil fighters.
The cemetery, known as a thuyilum illam or ‘resting place’ in Tamil, is one of several that was destroyed by the Sri Lankan state.
The day’s activities began with floral tributes and homage to fallen fighters, followed by the start of voluntary labour work to clean and restore the site. Participants also began constructing a perimeter fence at the front section of the resting place as part of the preparation efforts.
Speaking to the media, organisers said that the voluntary work marked the beginning of preparations for this year’s remembrance events, which they vowed would be carried out with dignity and significance.
They also called on parents and relatives of the fallen cadres to join and support the ongoing arrangements, reaffirming their commitment to ensuring that the legacy of those who gave their lives for the Tamil nation is honoured with respect.
Each year, despite surveillance and restrictions imposed by the Sri Lankan military, Tamils across the North-East continue to mark Maaveerar Naal, or Great Heroes Day, on 27 November, commemorating those who sacrificed their lives in the struggle for Tamil self-determination.
