Pongal, a major Tamil harvest festival, will be celebrated from January 14-17, 2026. Also known as Thai Pongal, the four-day festival honors nature and the Sun God, Surya, for a bountiful harvest. Key traditions include cooking and sharing 'sakkarai pongal' (a sweet rice dish) and the 'Pongalo Pongal' boiling ritual, symbolizing prosperity. The festival emphasizes gratitude, family, and new beginnings, with many observing it alongside Makar Sankranti.