Pongal

Pongal is Tamil Nadu's major harvest thanksgiving, named after the festive rice dish that is allowed to boil over as a sign of abundance. Celebrated over several days around the Sun's northward transition, it thanks the forces that make agriculture possible. Bhogi focuses on clearing the old and preparing for renewal; Thai Pongal gives central honour to Surya, the Sun, as freshly harvested rice is cooked with milk and offered before the family shares it. Mattu Pongal honours cattle whose labour has long supported farming, while Kaanum Pongal emphasizes visits, family bonds and community life. The cry of joy when the pot overflows turns an everyday act of cooking into a symbol of prosperity. The festival joins agriculture, gratitude to nature, respect for animals and hope for a fruitful new season.

Pongal is valued for devotion, family tradition and the spiritual or seasonal meaning attached to the day.

Bhogi first, when what is finished with is burnt. Then Thai Pongal, when the new rice is boiled with milk and jaggery in a new clay pot in the open until it comes over the rim. Mattu Pongal is the cattle's - horns painted, bells hung - and Kaanum Pongal is for going to see people. A kolam goes down at every door.

Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and the Tamil diaspora, over four days from the sun's entry into Makara. The same transit is Makar Sankranti across the north, Uttarayan in Gujarat and Magh Bihu in Assam - one date, and the harvest being celebrated is a different crop in each.