Pongal is a Hindu harvest festival celebrated by Tamils. This day is observed in the month of Thai according to the Tamil solar calendar. It usually falls on 14 or 15 January. This year Pongal will be celebrated from 14 to 17 January 2025.
The main theme of Pongal is thanking the Sun God, the forces of nature, the farm animals and people who support agriculture.
It is dedicated to the Sun god and coincides with Makar Sankranti, the Hindu festival celebrated under many regional names throughout India. The Tamil festival is celebrated over three to four days with Bhogi, Surya Pongal, Mattu Pongal and Kanum Pongal, observed on these days. Each day carries its own unique rituals and significance.
Pongal is one of the most significant festivals celebrated by Tamil people in Tamil Nadu and other parts of South India. It is also observed in Sri Lanka.
Pongal 2025 rituals:
On 14th January 2025, the celebration will start with Bhogi. This day is dedicated to honour Lord Indra, who brings prosperity to the land. Known as the rain god, Lord Indra plays an important role in agriculture and fertility. On this day, people burn unwanted household items in a blaze made of wood and cow dung cakes on this day.
Following this, Surya Pongal will be celebrated in the second day on 15th January 2025. Surya Pongal or Thai Pongal is the second and main festive day, dedicated to the Sun god.
Mattu Pongal will be celebrated on 16th January 2025. It is the third day of the festival and it is meant for the celebration of cattle as they are regarded as sources of wealth producing dairy products and fertilizers, used for transportation and agriculture.
On the fourth day, Kanum Pongal will mark the end of the Pongal festivities on 17h January 2025. On this day, communities organize social events in order to strengthen mutual bonds. They consume food and sugarcane during social gatherings.
Pongal 2025 timings:
According to Drik Panchang, the auspicious time for performing puja is between 8:00 AM and 10:30 AM. The Makar Sankranti Punya Kaal Muhurta on January 14 will be from 9:03 AM to 5:46 PM. The Makar Sankranti Maha Punya Kala is from 9:03 AM to 10:48 AM. Additionally, the Makar Sankranti moment is at 9:03 AM.