
Pongal festival is a traditional harvest festival celebrated in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is a four-day festival that marks the end of the winter season and the beginning of the harvest season. The festival is dedicated to the Sun God and includes various rituals such as boiling rice in milk and offering it to the Sun God as a sign of gratitude.

Pongal festival is a traditional harvest festival celebrated in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is a four-day festival that marks the end of the winter season and the beginning of the harvest season. The festival is dedicated to the Sun God and includes various rituals such as boiling rice in milk and offering it to the Sun God as a sign of gratitude.
What is Pongal?
Pongal is a traditional harvest festival in Tamil Nadu that marks the end of winter and the start of the harvest season, and it honors the Sun God.
How long does Pongal last and what are its main days?
Pongal lasts four days—Bhogi, Pongal, Mattu Pongal, and Kanum Pongal—each with its own rituals.
Why is the Sun God central to Pongal?
The festival thanks Surya, the Sun God, for the energy and warmth that help crops grow and feed families.
What foods are commonly prepared during Pongal?
The main dish Pongal—a sweet rice dish made with rice, milk, and jaggery (or a savory version with salt)—is prepared, along with offerings of sugarcane and festive snacks.