Pongal, a four-day harvest festival celebrated in Tamil Nadu, will take place from January 13-17, 2026. The festival honors Surya, the Sun God, and marks the sun's northward journey (Uttarayan). Each day has unique traditions: Bhogi involves discarding old items and bonfires, Thai Pongal is the main day for cooking the traditional dish and expressing gratitude, Mattu Pongal honors cattle, and Kaanum Pongal is for social bonding. The festival symbolizes prosperity and abundance.