"Happy Pongal"

May the warmth of Pongal fill your life with joy and prosperity!

Pongal is a festival that blends cultural traditions , gratitude and joy of the community. It is one of the most cherished festivals in Tamil culture which widely takes place within regions like Tamil Nadu and other Southern Indian states. This festival is celebrated annually during the month of January. It is a four day festival which marks the sun’s Northward journey signifying the auspicious harvest season. It is a time to thank God for nurturing the earth. Other than its agricultural significance , it symbolize family reunions , social gathering and the enjoyment of traditional delicacies.

The rituals related to the festival spans for four days. The day one is known as “ Bhogi Pongal ” which means a day of renewal. It is dedicated to Lord Indra , the God of rain and agricultural abundance. It is known as a day of renewal as the houses are cleaned and old or unused items are discarded to embrace the new beginning. There is a unique tradition related to this day which is called “ Bhogi Pandhal ”. During this fruits , flowers and auspicious items are beautifully arranged to invite blessings and prosperity. The second day is called “ Thai Pongal ” which is known to be the most significant day of the festival. It is celebrated as a day of gratitude for harvest , particularly rice which holds cultural and agricultural importance. It is dedicated to thank “ Surya ” , the God of sun. People prepare traditional ‘Pongal’ dish which is made out of freshly harvested rice. The sweet variant is prepared using jaggery and milk and the savory version is flavored with pepper , cumin and ghee. Boiling a pot of milk is a significant act here. when the pot boils, it symbolizes the prosperity and good fortune. “ Mattu Pongal ” is the third day which is dedicated to honor cattle. Cow is a significant animal in agriculture which can be known as the backbone of farming activities. As a celebration of this day , farmers bath their cows , bulls ,buffaloes adorning them with garlands , painted horns and bells as a mark of respect. This day emphasizes the role of animals in ensuring a successful harvest.

The day four which is known as “ Kaanum Pongal ” is a day of togetherness. The final day is about socializing and cherishing time with the loved ones. The term “ Kaanum ” refers to ‘meeting’ reflecting the spirit of unity and togetherness. Families gather to hare food ,laughter and blessings making a day of relaxation and strengthen bonding.

As a source of entertainment , the festivities are marked by traditional kolams , cultural dances and music that bring communities together in harmony.

Pongal is not just a celebration of harvest but also a reminder that abundance grow when we nurture relationships, cherished traditions and honor nature.

Kithmini Lindapitiya

Faculty of Applied Sciences

Rajarata University of Sri Lanka