Pongal Festival: A Four-Day Tamil Harvest Celebration of Sun, Earth, and Cattle

Pongal, a four-day Tamil harvest festival celebrated from January 14-17, honors the sun, earth, and cattle. The festival involves rituals, traditional food, and vibrant decorations like kolams. Each day has specific significance: Bhogi for renewal and discarding old items, Thai Pongal as the main day dedicated to the sun, Mattu Pongal for honoring cattle, and Kaanum Pongal for family gatherings and excursions. The festival symbolizes prosperity and abundance, offering a glimpse into Tamil Nadu's cultural traditions.