As the new year begins, the people of Tamil Nadu are getting ready for their biggest festival: Pongal. Starting from January 13 to January 17, 2026, homes across the state will be filled with the smell of sweet rice and fresh sugarcane to celebrate the annual harvest. Pongal is more than just a holiday; it is a time for families to thank nature, the sun, and their farm animals for providing food throughout the year.
What does “Pongal” mean?
As per Drik Panchang, the word “Pongal” literally means “to boil over.” During the festival, families cook a special dish made of new rice, milk, and jaggery in a clay pot. When the pot bubbles over, it is a sign of good luck and plenty. Everyone shouts “Pongalo Pongal!” to celebrate a life that is full of happiness and wealth.
The festival is dedicated to the Sun God (Surya) and marks the start of the Tamil month called Thai, which people believe brings new opportunities to every home.
The four days of Pongal festival
As per Drik Panchang, the celebration is divided into four special days, each with its own tradition:
1. Bhogi Pongal (January 13): The first day is all about cleaning. People clear out old clothes and broken items from their homes. In many neighborhoods, people light a bonfire to burn these old things. This symbolizes a fresh start and letting go of the past. Beautiful designs called Kolams are drawn in front of houses using rice flour.
2. Thai Pongal (January 14): This is the most important day. Families gather outside to cook the Pongal dish in the sun. They use new clay pots decorated with ginger and turmeric plants. The first portion of the sweet rice is offered to the Sun God as a “thank you” for the harvest. People wear their best new clothes and visit neighbors to share sweets.
3. Mattu Pongal (January 15): The third day is for the animals. Farmers wash their cows and bulls, paint their horns with bright colors, and put bells around their necks. This is a day to show respect to the animals that help till the land. In many villages, traditional sports like Jallikattu take place.
4. Kanum Pongal (January 16-17): The final day is for relaxing and visiting loved ones. Families go to the beach, parks, or the homes of relatives. It is a time for children to get blessings from their elders and for the whole community to come together.
The Festive feast, shubh muhurat
Food is the main highlight of the week. While the Sweet (Sakkarai) Pongal is the most famous, many also cook Ven Pongal, which is a salty version made with pepper and ghee. Other favorites include medu vada, avial and sugarcane.
For those following traditional timings, the Pongal Shubh Muhurat (the best time for rituals) in 2026 begins at 03:13 pm.
