The Four Days Of Pongal: Bhogi, Thai, Mattu, And Kaanum Pongal The Four Days Of Pongal: Bhogi, Thai, Mattu, And Kaanum Pongal

January is a month when festivities arrive, and we celebrate each festival with huge enthusiasm and joy. Pongal, the four-day harvest festival, is fast approaching and will be celebrated from January 13 to January 16, 2025 (according to Drik Panchang). It is primarily celebrated by the Tamil community in India. It is a time to express gratitude to the Sun God, Mother Nature, and the hardworking farmers. The festival is marked by the preparation of the traditional Pongal dish, a sweet rice concoction, and elaborate decorations with colourful kolam (floor patterns). Families come together to exchange gifts, enjoy feasts, and participate in cultural activities, creating a joyous atmosphere of thanksgiving and celebration. Each day of the festival has its unique significance, customs, and traditions. Let us delve deeper into the four days of Pongal.

Everything you need to know about the four days of PongalBhogi Pongal (First Day)

"It is a great honour to be nominated for the FIH Player of the Year Award again," the Indian defender stated in a Hockey India release.

The first day of Pongal, celebrated as Bhogi Pongal, is a day of renewal and cleansing. Homes are cleaned, old belongings are discarded, and bonfires are lit to symbolize the burning away of negativity. People wear new clothes, decorate their homes with vibrant colours, and make rangoli or Kolam to welcome prosperity and good fortune. Bhogi sets the stage for the joyous celebrations of the following days, marking the beginning of a fresh harvest season and a time of gratitude.

Thai Pongal (Second Day)

Thai Pongal, also known as Surya Pongal, is the major day of the Pongal celebration for the South Indian communities. As per Drik Panchang, Thai Pongal will fall on January 14, 2025. It marks the first day of the Thai Masam (month of Thai) in the Tamil Solar Calendar and coincides with the Makar Sankranti celebrations in India. This day is dedicated to preparing the festive dish Pongal and praying to the Sun God. There is a prominent ritual where fresh milk is cooked till it reaches the vessel's edge to begin the day and this ritual is believed to bring prosperity. On this day, people in Tamil Nadu prepare the traditional sweet dish "Pongal," made from rice, milk, and jaggery. This is offered to the deity as prasad. Women gather at a specific site in various parts of Tamil Nadu to perform the ceremony together. Other things, such as sugarcane, coconut, and bananas, are offered to the Sun god to express gratitude for a bountiful harvest and celebrate with traditional songs and dances.

Mattu Pongal (Third Day)

Mattu Pongal, the third day of the four-day Pongal festival, is dedicated to honoring cattle (Cows and bulls). People express gratitude to their cattle for their tireless work in agriculture. The day begins with cows and bulls being bathed and then beautifully decorated for Mattu Pongal. Their horns are typically adorned and garlanded, and "Pongal" is offered to cows and oxen. People pay their respects by touching the cattle's feet and performing aarti (a ritual of showing fire to the object of praise). On this day, bullfights, popularly known as Jallikattu, are held. Bull-taming is a popular sport in Tamil Nadu's Madurai area. 

Kaanum Pongal (Fourth Day)

The fourth and final day of Pongal is celebrated as Kaanum Pongal, which is a day of thanksgiving and celebration. Kaanum Pongal is also known as Karinaal or Knau Pongal in some parts of Tamil Nadu. On this day, people worship the Sun God and celebrate Sarkarai Pongal. Sugarcane is consecrated to the deity and exchanged among mankind as a symbol of sweetness and gladness. During Kaanum Pongal, individuals pay visits to family members and distant friends, exchange gifts, and enjoy festive meals. It is also a day for showcasing new clothes and jewellery. The atmosphere is filled with joy, laughter, and the spirit of togetherness.

The Essence of Pongal

Pongal is more than just a festival; it is a celebration of life, nature, and community. Each of the four days emphasizes values such as gratitude, unity, and respect for nature and traditions. From the bonfires of Bhogi to the communal feasts of Kaanum Pongal, the festival is a testament to the deep connection between humanity and the natural world.

As families gather to celebrate the harvest, Pongal fosters a sense of gratitude for the blessings of life and reinforces the bonds of love and togetherness. Whether it’s through the aroma of freshly cooked Pongal or the vibrant kolams adorning every doorstep, the festival radiates joy, prosperity, and hope for the year ahead.

Happy Pongal!

Follow Outlook Experiences:

Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | LinkedInbetjili