Bhogi, celebrated on January 13, 2026, marks the start of the four-day Pongal festival in Southern India, particularly Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana, and is also observed in Maharashtra. The festival symbolizes renewal and letting go of the past by burning old belongings in a bonfire, known as Bhogi Mantalu, to welcome new beginnings and positive energy. It is a harvest festival expressing gratitude for abundance and seeking blessings for the future. A special ritual, Bhogi Pallu, blesses young children.