What is Pongal festival and why mainly celebrated in India?

Pongal is an ancient festival that has been celebrated in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu for many centuries. It is a harvest festival that is celebrated to give thanks for the abundance of the crops that have been harvested.

The exact origins of the festival are not clear, but it is believed to have originated as a way for farmers to give thanks for the abundance of the harvest. The festival is mentioned in ancient Tamil literature, and it is thought to have evolved over time to include a variety of traditions and customs.

It is observed from the last day of the Tamil month of Margazhi to the third day of Thai.

As it marks the end of the harvest season. It is also a time for people to thank the Sun, the Earth, and the cattle that play a vital role in the farming process. Pongal is celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm, with people engaging in traditional activities such as cooking sweet rice and other dishes, decorating their homes, and participating in temple festivals. Pongal is also a time for people to come together with their families and friends to celebrate the abundance of the harvest.

What they do in Pongal?

The word "Pongal" is derived from the Tamil word "pongu," which means "to boil" or "to overflow."

This refers to the traditional Pongal dish that is prepared on the first day of the festival, which is made with rice, lentils, and milk. The Pongal dish is cooked in a clay pot, and as it boils over, it is considered to be a symbol of abundance and prosperity.

In addition to the Pongal dish, the festival also includes traditional rituals such as the drawing of kolams (intricate designs made with rice flour), the lighting of bonfires, and the decorating of cows and bulls. All of these traditions are believed to bring good luck and prosperity for the coming year.

Which date is celebrating and how they are celebrating?

The festival is typically held in the month of January, and it is a time for people to come together to celebrate with food, music, and other cultural traditions. On the first day of the festival, people usually prepare a special dish called "Pongal" as an offering to the gods. The second day is called "Mattu Pongal," and it is a day to honor cattle, which are considered to be an important part of the farming community. The third day is called "Kaanum Pongal," and it is a time for people to visit friends and family and to exchange gifts. The fourth and final day is called "Thiruvalluvar Day," and it is a day to honor the Tamil poet and philosopher Thiruvalluvar.

The four days of the Pongal festival are:

1.Surya Pongal: This is the first day of the festival, and it is also known as "Bhogi." It is a day to honor the sun god, Surya, and to give thanks for the abundant harvest.

2.Thai Pongal: This is the second day of the festival, and it is also known as "Mattu Pongal." It is a day to honor cattle, which are considered to be an important part of the farming community.

3.Kaanum Pongal: This is the third day of the festival, and it is a time for people to visit friends and family and to exchange gifts.

4.Thiruvalluvar Day: This is the fourth and final day of the festival, and it is a day to honor the Tamil poet and philosopher Thiruvalluvar.

Each day of the Pongal festival has its own special significance, and all four days are celebrated with traditional rituals, music, dance, and other cultural traditions.