Pongal, a vibrant harvest festival celebrated primarily in South India, is a time of joy, gratitude, and renewal. It marks the beginning of the Tamil month of Thai and falls in mid-January each year. The four-day event that is dedicated to the Sun God marks the Sun’s journey northward, Uttarayan. Pongal is usually celebrated between 13 and 16 January. The four days-Bhogi Pongal, Thai Pongal, Mattu Pongal, and Kaanum Pongal-have their separate significance. Thai Pongal on January 14 corresponds with the Makar Sankranti, the harvest festival that is celebrated across India under various regional names.
According to Tamil Nadu Tourism, people discard their old materials and replace them with new items on Bhogi day. Sun God is worshipped on Thai or Surya Pongal day. Kolams, or decorative patterns, are drawn at the entrance of the house. Thai Pongal also marks the beginning of the Tamil auspicious month, Thai, as per the Tamil solar calendar.
The cattle, or ‘maatu,’ are worshipped on the Maatu Pongal day. People show their veneration for the work they do on the farmlands. The cattle look more beautiful with polished horns, and they are made to wear flower garlands, beads, and bells. Families get together on the fourth or Kaanum Pongal Day to have a grand meal.
Mayilattam and Kolattam-the traditional folk dances-are performed on this day. Jallikattu (a game involving bulls), vazhukku maram (slippery pole), mallar kambam (a mix of gymnastics and yoga), Uri Adithal (breaking a hanging mud pot, blindfolded), and Kabaddi (a team sport). Pongal Mela, or fairs, exhibit and sell sarees, ethnic jewellery, handicrafts, and pottery.
Pongal is a time of great cultural significance in South India. It is a festival that celebrates the bounty of nature, the importance of agriculture, and the spirit of togetherness. The festive atmosphere, the delicious food, and the vibrant colours make Pongal a truly memorable occasion.
In Tamil, Pongu means ‘to boil over,’ and it is from this term that Pongal was derived. A sweet dish-Pongal-which is a mixture of new rice, along with milk, jaggery, and cardamom, is prepared in a pot during these festive days.
Here are some of the messages, wishes, quotes, statuses, SMS, messages, and greetings that you can send to your family and friends:
May the sweetness of jaggery, milk, and dry fruits bring happiness into your lives. Happy Pongal!
May Lord Surya shine his divine blessings on your home. Wish you and your family a Happy Pongal!
Happy Pongal: May you have a bright and shining year ahead!
Greetings on Pongal! May the harvest festival ensure you always have the best food and best life.
Sending my warm wishes and love to you and your family on this auspicious festive occasion. Wishing you a bright and joyful Sankranti and Happy Pongal.
Happy Pongal: May the sweetness of jaggery and rice fill up your life.
Let the warmth of the auspicious festival of Pongal fill your home with joy.
May the sweetness of jaggery, milk, and dry fruits bring the loveliest of wishes this festive season.
Happy Pongal: Wish you and your family a happy Makar Sankranti and Pongal!
Wishing you a long and happy life, prosperity, and loving family and friends, and may every dream of yours become a reality.