A video circulating widely on social media in Sri Lanka has triggered a wave of controversy after it showed a man engaging in what he described as a New Year game, in which he simulated shooting at a photograph of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa. The footage, which quickly spread across multiple platforms, has drawn sharp criticism from political observers, civil society groups, and members of the public who argue that it crosses a dangerous line between political expression and the promotion of violence.
In the video, the individual directly addresses viewers while pointing out that the act is part of a New Year-themed game, a reference to traditional Sinhala and Tamil New Year festivities where light-hearted competitive games are commonly played. However, instead of conventional celebrations, the clip depicts a symbolic shooting activity directed at the image of the former president. The man further justifies his actions by stating that they were carried out in response to another New Year-related activity allegedly conducted by a different group, which he claims insulted the current President of Sri Lanka.
This claim of retaliation has intensified the debate, as it suggests a cycle of symbolic political aggression being played out through social media content disguised as festive entertainment. Critics argue that framing such acts as “games” does not diminish their potential to normalize hostility toward political figures, particularly in a country where political tensions and historical violence remain sensitive issues.
The video has since become the center of a broader public discussion about the limits of political expression in digital spaces. Social media users have expressed sharply divided opinions, with some dismissing the act as immature provocation carried out in the spirit of political satire, while others describe it as an unacceptable and reckless display that could encourage real-world aggression. The lack of clarity around whether any legal action will be taken has further fueled speculation and debate online.
Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, one of Sri Lanka’s most prominent and polarizing political figures, has long been a symbolic focal point in the country’s political discourse. His tenure and the legacy of his family in Sri Lankan politics continue to generate strong reactions across different segments of society. Against this backdrop, even symbolic acts involving his image tend to attract heightened attention and emotional responses, particularly when they are perceived as disrespectful or violent in nature.
The individual in the video reportedly justified the act by referencing what he described as an insulting New Year activity targeting the current President. While details of that alleged incident remain unclear, the claim highlights a growing trend in which political disagreements are increasingly expressed through provocative online performances rather than traditional forms of protest or debate. Analysts say this shift reflects both the influence of social media culture and the deepening polarization within Sri Lankan politics.
