Pongal 2025: Celebrated every year during the Tamil month of Thai, Pongal is one of the most important celebrations in Tamil Nadu and other southern Indian states. This vibrant, four-day festival marks the start of the sun’s trip northward, which is considered to be an auspicious time for harvest. The event is a means of giving thanks for the abundant agricultural harvest and honoring the Sun God for protecting the world.

It is more than simply a harvest festival for the people of Tamil Nadu; it is a time for social gatherings, family reunions, and the consumption of traditional cuisine. Every day of the celebration, from Bhogi to Kaanum Pongal, reflects the area’s agricultural heritage, respect for the natural world, and belief in the gods who provide wealth. Let’s walk you through the meaning, customs, and traditional cuisine of the four-day Pongal festivities.

Pongal 2025: A Four-Day Harvest Festival

Pongal Bhogi

Lord Indra, the god of rain and agricultural success, is honored on the first day of Pongal, also called Bhogi Pongal. In order to create room for the new, people clean and get rid of old, unnecessary things from their homes on this day dedicated to change and regeneration. “Bhogi Pandhal,” a beautiful arrangement consisting of fruits, flowers, and other auspicious objects to bring blessings and good fortune, is an important practice during Bhogi.

Pongal in Thai

One of the most significant days of Pongal is the second day, which is called Thai Pongal. On Thai Pongal, a day of thankfulness, people show their appreciation for the harvest, especially rice, which is very important in Tamil culture. Families cook the traditional “Pongal” cuisine, which may be either savoury (prepared with pepper, cumin, and ghee) or sweet (made with newly harvested rice, jaggery, and milk).

Pongal Mattu

Mattu Pongal, the third day of Pongal, is dedicated to celebrating the cattle that support farming and guarantee a bountiful crop. Buffaloes, bulls, and cows are washed and decked up with ornamental bells, painted horns, and colorful garlands.

Pongal Kaanum

Kaanum Pongal, the fourth and last day of the celebration, is a day for mingling, unwinding, and spending time with loved ones. “Kaanum,” which means “seeing” or “meeting,” refers to gathering with loved ones to enjoy blessings, laughing, and food.