Pongal : Page 1

Custom and Celebration of Pongal

India is acknowledged as a “Land of Diversity” in the entire world for the obvious reason. Being the only land with the most diverse geographical traits and religious faith, India witness the most diverse festivals as well. Among several of festivals that get celebrated in our country, Pongal is one of the oldest. The festival is celebrated in the southern states of the country on a huge level and lasts for 4 days, each day covered in a celebration. And celebration cannot be said to be complete without exchange of gifts. This Pongal, surprise your loved ones and send personalised gifts to India. Although the same festival is celebrated across the country but with different names, the celebration of Pongal is the most different and longer than the others. The four days are Bhogi Pongal, Thai Pongal, Mattu Pongal, and Kanum Pongal. Each day has its own celebration and story behind that and the enthusiasm and the spirit of the festival can easily be witnessed through the spirit of the people. People dress themselves in new wears, decorate the houses in the best way, cook the best food they know till date, and make huge colorful Rangolis to add the flavor to the occasion. But knowing the story and the custom of the celebration is important to wear the same zeal and enthusiasm. Bhogi Pongal- The First Day The first day, known as “Bhogi Pongal” is celebrated to express the gratitude to the God Indra, “God of cloud and rains” for providing the harvest in abundance, getting affluence to the land. On this day, people clean their houses and collect the unwanted stuff to throw in the fire and this is a long ritual, known as Bhogi Mantalu. Thai Pongal- The Second Day The second day is dedicated to the God Sun, who plays the most important role in the harvest. From the second day, the actual celebration begins and people gather to cook “Pongal” in clay pots. The rice getting cooked in the pot overflows and people gathered shouts “Pongal O Pongal” while worshipping the God Sun. The overflow of the rice signifies the successful farming season. Mattu Pongal- The Third Day The third day is dedicated to cattle and is called Mattu Pongal. On this day, people offer their prayers and tributes to cattle by cleaning, oiling and decorating them. Kanum Pongal- The Fourth Day The last day of Pongal, known as Kanum Pongal is celebrated by people visiting their relatives and friends homes by exchanging sweets and gifts. On this day, people draw kolam in their house. As the festival holds an important place in people's’ lives then it ought to be celebrated the best way. People living abroad can now send gifts to their nearest ones with the help on online websites. An array of online web portals are available that are offering the best gift options to send to your loved ones including anniversary gifts to India and birthday gifts to India.