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Pongal is a multi-day Hindu festival celebrated predominantly in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It marks the harvest season's commencement and corresponds with the astronomical event when the sun starts its northward journey, known as Uttarayan. Pongal generally takes place from January 14 to January 17 each year.
The festival's name, "Pongal," comes from the Tamil word meaning "to boil" and refers to the traditional dish prepared during this time. The history of Pongal can be traced back to the Sangam Age, i.e., 200 B.C. to 300 A.D., making it one of the oldest festivals celebrated in India. Originally a festival for farming communities, Pongal now extends into an almost nationwide celebration.
Pongal encompasses several traditions that reflect gratitude towards nature and livestock:
Bhogi Pongal: The first day is dedicated to Lord Indra and involves discarding old belongings and welcoming new possessions, symbolizing change and transformation.
Surya Pongal: The second day is dedicated to the Sun God, Surya. People prepare a special dish called 'Sakkarai Pongal' which is sweetened rice boiled with milk and jaggery in new pots.
Mattu Pongal: On the third day, cattle are honored for their role in agriculture; they are bathed, adorned with beads, bells, and flowers, their horns painted, and worshipped.
Kaanum Pongal: The fourth day involves visiting family and friends; it's a time for socializing and exchanging gifts.
On this festive occasion, homes are cleaned thoroughly; intricate kolams (rangoli designs made with rice flour) decorate entrances as a sign of welcome and good fortune. Families gather to cook the Pongal dish outdoors in clay pots over wood fires as a communal activity—a ritual that symbolizes abundance and prosperity. Festive music, dance performances such as Kummattikali or Kai Silambu Attam contribute to the celebratory atmosphere. Traditional games like Jallikattu (bull-taming sport) also take place in some regions despite controversies surrounding it.
In essence, through its activities and traditions associated with nature's bounty, family values, social bonding, rural life appreciation coupled with joyous celebrations
