Pongal is a vibrant harvest festival celebrated by the Tamil community in South India, typically starting on January 14. It marks the beginning of the Tamil month of Thai, which is considered auspicious. The festival spans four days and is a time to thank nature for its bounty, celebrate agricultural success, and honour the Sun and farm animals.
On the first day, Bhogi Pongal, families clean their homes, burn old items, and prepare for the arrival of new crops. This ritual signifies the renewal of life and a fresh start. The second day, Surya Pongal, is dedicated to the Sun God. People wear new clothes, cook on new stoves, and prepare a special dish called Pongal made from newly harvested rice, jaggery, and moong dal. This day marks not only the harvest season but also the end of the southeast monsoon and the start of the Tamil harvest cycle.
The third day, Maattu Pongal, is a celebration of cattle, which are integral to farming life. Cattle are adorned with decorations, and their horns are cleaned and painted. Villagers often hold traditional bull races like Manjiviratu or Jallikattu, where bulls with money tied to their horns are released, and villagers try to retrieve the money. These activities are rooted in agricultural tradition and linked to the legend of Shiva’s bull, Basava, who was cursed to live on Earth. The fourth day, Kaanum Pongal, is dedicated to family reunions. People visit relatives, exchange best wishes, and celebrate togetherness.
It resembles the North Indian festival of Raksha Bandhan, where bonds are strengthened, and old enmities are forgotten. This day is all about rebuilding relationships, fostering unity, and embracing reconciliation. Throughout the four days, Pongal fosters a spirit of togetherness, celebrates agricultural prosperity, and strengthens bonds between families and communities. It’s a festival that not only honours nature but also encourages new opportunities for personal and collective growth. Pongalo Pongal!
Written by Raju Soosai SVD, Divine Word Society at Indore
