Justin Trudeau, Canada's Prime Minister, released a message sending Puthandu wishes to the Tamil community celebrating the New Year.
"Today, Tamils in Canada and around the world celebrate Puthandu, and welcome the beginning of a new year," he wrote in a statement today.
"While this year's celebration will be a bit different as we practice physical distancing and stay home, away from family and friends to fight the COVID-19 pandemic, Puthandu is an occassion to give thanks for the blessings in our lives. We express our solidarity to Tamil communities in Canada and across the globe as we confront an unprecedented global health and economic crisis. We will get through these challenging times together."
"As Tamil Canadians celebrate the New Year, let us also take the time to recognise the important contributions they make to the richness and diversity of Canada."