Pongal is a harvest festival celebrated in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu in the month of January. The festival lasts for four days and is dedicated to the Sun God. Pongal is one of the most important festivals celebrated by Tamilians.
The first day of Pongal is called Bhogi. On this day, people clean their houses and discard old things. Bonfires are lit in front of houses and people offer prayers to Lord Indra for a good harvest.
The second day is known as Thai Pongal, which is the main day of the festival. It is celebrated on the first day of the Tamil month Thai, which falls on January 14th. People wake up early in the morning and prepare pongal, a sweet dish made of rice, lentils, jaggery, and milk. This dish is offered to the Sun God as a thanksgiving for a good harvest.
The third day is called Mattu Pongal, which is dedicated to cows. Cows are given a bath and decorated with colored paints and flowers. They are worshipped and fed with special food.
The fourth day is known as Kaanum Pongal. On this day, people visit their friends and relatives and exchange gifts. They also go for picnics and enjoy the various cultural programs organized by the community.
Pongal festival is a time of joy, happiness, and togetherness. It is a celebration of nature, agriculture, and harvest, and is a symbol of the richness and diversity of Tamil culture.
