Pongal 2025 Celebrations Begin Across Southern India

The four-day Tamil harvest festival, starting January 14, honors the Sun God, agricultural prosperity, and community unity with unique rituals each day.

Pongal 2025 runs from January 14 to January 17, marking the Tamil month of Thai and celebrating the harvest season across Southern India.
The festival begins with Bhogi Pongal, a day of cleansing and renewal, where old items are burned in bonfires to symbolize fresh beginnings.
Surya Pongal, the second and most significant day, is dedicated to the Sun God, featuring the preparation of the traditional Pongal dish as an offering of gratitude.
Mattu Pongal, the third day, honors cattle for their role in agriculture, with rituals including decorating and feeding the animals and traditional bull races in villages.
The festival concludes with Kaanum Pongal, a day for family reunions, cultural festivities, and strengthening of community bonds.