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The event jointly organised by four Sri Lankan associations, Hounslow Sri Lankan Janahanda Foundation, Heathrow Sri Lankan Community Centre, Slsco Flame and Helabasa Surekeeme Jathika Ekamuthuwa saw the traditional Sri Lankan games and competitions being played, including the infamous Avurudhu Kumariya competition.

The Bak Maha Ulela was graced by the presence of High Commissioner for Sri Lanka in the United Kingdom; Mrs. Kshenuka Senewiratne as the Chief Guest, Guests of Honour Mr. Jegdish Sharma, Leader of the Opposition Group in the Hounslow Council; Mr.Sudantha Ganegama Arachchie, the Deputy High Commissioner for Sri Lanka, Hounslow Councillor, Mr. Gopal Singh Binthol and Ms. Surya Samaraweera, Solicitor. Among the religious dignitaries present were the Maha Nayake Thero of the Kingsbury Vihare and the Maha Nayake Thero of the London Buddhist Vihare. Several leading Sri Lankan businessmen and Professionals were also among the distinguished guests present.

The day\'s events commenced in the early afternoon with traditional games and competitions. Although showers prevented the open door events being held in the play ground, the organisers were prepared in advance to have the events indoors. The Ulela kicked off with a large number of children participating in Bun Eating and Fancy Dress competitions while adults were given a chance to take part in the popular running with a Lime on Spoon, the Tug of War and other competitions. Attractive prizes were given which thrilled the participants.

The Chief Guest, the Guests of Honour and other distinguished Guests, were welcome to the festival in traditional Sri Lankan style with the handing over a sheaf of betel leaves to the Guests by a bevy of harming little girls dressed in traditional attire. The special invitees then lit the traditional Oil Lamp which was colourful decorated by Shiran and his team.

Following the Anusasana of Rev. Gunawansa Thero, the Chief Guest, High Commissioner Kshenuka Senewiratne made her speech complimenting the organisations for demonstrating unity even in a country of domicile and with encouraging words and wishes for the future. Next Mr. Jegdish Sharma, did not fail to praise the Sri Lankan community for their enthusiasm and efforts in all spheres. Mr. Mohamed Marzook, one of the co-ordinators of the event, made a brief explanation on the significance of the celebration.

Asiri Bandara, with his eloquent Sinhala language introduced the events participants. Groups of children beautified the stage with copara copara pipinja and other dances. A bevy of fifteen damsels paraded for the Avurudhu Kumari contest. None different from the other the lasses gave the the judges a difficult time in choosing the best among them. Fortunate was Amaadi Sirimanne to be crowned as the Avurudhu Kumari 2008 with Natasha Jayasundera in the second place and Deren Jayawardena in the third, both giving the winner a tough competition. The Attanayake Group performed the Sri Lankan udarata and pahatarata dances.

With Sky High Entertainment producing their best in music, the two Guest Singers from Sri Lanka, Asanka Priyamantha Peiris with his popular classical deliveries and Vijitha De Silva with his romantic numbers highlighted the events. Sunil Perera brought the young and old to their feet with his dance provoking songs. All participants were treated to a traditional buffet of rice, fried sprats and shrimps, cadju and dhal curries. Music and dancing proceeded and ended passing mid-night.

A colourful souvenir was issued to mark the occasion. Gamini Muthukumarana and Mohamed Marzook handled the co-ordination of the successful event.

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