Pongal 2025: Dates, History, and Significance of the Four-Day Festival
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Pongal 2025: Pongal, a highly esteemed harvest festival in Southern India, is celebrated with immense fervour, especially in Tamil Nadu. This year, the festivities commence on January 14, 2025, and continue for four days, concluding on January 17, with each day holding its own distinct importance. The festival heralds the onset of the harvest season, during which farmers express their gratitude to nature for a bountiful yield.
In addition to its agricultural roots, Pongal symbolizes fresh starts and the end of winter, instilling joy and optimism in the hearts of millions. From its historical context to its significance, this overview provides essential insights into this auspicious celebration.
What is Pongal 2025? Know date and timings
Pongal, observed on the inaugural day of the Tamil month of Thai, coincides with various regional harvest festivals such as Makar Sankranti in Eastern India, Lohri in Punjab, and Uttarayan in Gujarat.
This year, Pongal festivities will begin on January 14, 2025, and continue until January 17 (Friday), according to Drik Panchang. The auspicious time for performing puja is between 8:00 AM and 10:30 AM, adding a spiritual essence to the grand celebrations.
All about the four days of Pongal
Bhogi Pongal (January 14, 2025)
The festival begins with Bhogi Pongal, a day of cleansing and renewal. Old and unwanted items are burned in bonfires, symbolising the end of the past and a fresh start. Homes are thoroughly cleaned to invite positivity and good vibes.
Surya or Thai Pongal (January 15, 2025)
The second and most important day of Thai Pongal is dedicated to the Sun God. Families create the traditional sweet rice dish known as Pongal, which is made with freshly harvested rice, milk, and jaggery. This dish is presented to the Sun as a token of appreciation for a plentiful harvest and is shared with family and friends.
Mattu Pongal (January 16, 2025)
Mattu Pongal honours cattle, which are essential to agriculture. During this festival, farmers cleanse their cattle, decorate their horns, embellish them with garlands, and provide them with special delicacies.
Kaanum Pongal (January 17, 2025)
The festival culminates in Kaanum Pongal, a day dedicated to family reunions, leisure, and cultural celebrations. Relatives gather to honour togetherness, partake in shared meals, and offer prayers for well-being and prosperity.
Pongal 2025 history and significance
Pongal, which has its origins in Tamil history dating back to the Sangam Age, was originally observed to pay homage to the Sun God (Surya) and various deities for the blessings of a bountiful harvest. The term "Pongal" is derived from the Tamil word pong, which translates to "to boil over," representing the abundance and joy experienced by farmers during the harvest season.
In Tamil literature, Pongal is depicted as a period filled with rituals, feasting, and celebrations. It signifies the commencement of the auspicious Tamil month of Thai and the Sun's transition into Capricorn (Makara), heralding new beginnings and prosperity. The festival continues to be a lively expression of gratitude and communal harmony.
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