Pongal coincides with other harvest festivals such as Makar Sankranti, Uttarayan, and Lohri, though each has unique rituals depending on the region. The four-day celebration began with Bhogi, a day dedicated to cleaning homes and discarding old or unused items through a symbolic bonfire.
The main day, Thai Pongal, is marked by cooking the traditional Pongal dish, made from rice, milk, and jaggery. The preparation is performed outdoors in a new clay pot until it boils over—a ritual known as Pongal oothum. Homes are also adorned with kolam, decorative patterns drawn on the ground using rice flour, symbolizing prosperity and welcoming the Sun God.
The festival not only celebrates the harvest but also strengthens cultural and family bonds, reflecting gratitude towards nature and the divine for ensuring a successful season.
