Pongal
The Tamil harvest festival, four days of abundance and gratitude.
Thai Pongal falls on the first day of the Tamil solar month of Thai, when the sun enters Capricorn (Makara Sankranti), which lands on January 14 or 15. The four-day festival runs from Bhogi the day before through Kaanum Pongal.
When Is Pongal?
Thai Pongal falls on the first day of the Tamil solar month of Thai, when the sun enters Capricorn (Makara Sankranti), which lands on January 14 or 15. The four-day festival runs from Bhogi the day before through Kaanum Pongal.
Because the Gregorian date changes from year to year, check a calendar published by the tradition or your local community for this year's date.
Why It Matters
Pongal is the most important festival of Tamil Nadu, celebrating the sun entering Capricorn and giving thanks for a successful harvest. The ritual boiling of freshly harvested rice until it overflows symbolizes abundance.
How It Is Observed
Day 1 (Bhogi): burning old possessions. Day 2 (Thai Pongal): ritual boiling of Pongal dish, sun worship. Day 3 (Mattu Pongal): honoring decorated cattle. Day 4 (Kaanum Pongal): family visits.