Pongal

History & Origins of Pongal

Pongal is a four-day harvest thanksgiving festival celebrated by Tamils globally, marking the sun's entry into the month of Thai. Rooted in ancient Sangam era harvest rituals, it honors the Sun God, nature, and the farm cattle that make agricultural prosperity possible.

How It Is Observed & Celebrated

Celebrated by boiling newly harvested rice with milk and jaggery in a clay pot until it overflows, accompanied by shouts of 'Pongalo Pongal!' to welcome abundance. Homes are decorated with elaborate kolam designs, and farm cattle are decorated and worshipped.