Pongal, also known as Thamizhar Thirunāḷ, is an important festival observed by the people of Tamil Nāḍu for celebrating the birth of the Tamil month Thai (January 12-15), which they believe will pave way for new opportunities (Thai pirandhāl vazhi pirakkum) and good harvest in the coming months In different regions of India, similar harvest festivals are celebrated with different names and rituals. In Punjab the festival is known as Lohri, while in Assam it is called Bhogāli Bihu, in Karṇāṭaka, Āndhra Pradeśh, Mahārāṣhtra, Madhya Pradeśh, Utthar Pradeśh and Bihār it is known as Makara Sankrānthi.

The astronomical significance of the festival is that it marks the beginning of Uttarāyaṇa (sun’s movement northward for a six month period).Hindhu mythology considers this period to be auspicious and all important events are scheduled during this time.

The festival is also meant for thanking the Nature (Sun) for providing prosperity throughout the year .The celebrations of the festival last for four days, each day signifying a unique ritual.

• The first day is celebrated as Bhogi by throwing all unwanted and old materials in fire .People enjoy the moment by dancing and singing around the fire. This ritual marks the end of the old Thai and the emergence of the new Thai.
• The second day is the main celebration of Pongal and this falls on the first day of the Thai month. On this day, people wake up early; decorate new pots (with kolam, sugar cane pieces) and boil rice with fresh milk, jaggery and cashew nuts. When the preparation boils over, people gather around shouting “Pongalo Pongal” as it is considered that good fortune is forth coming . Later, the new boiled rice is offered to Sun God and then to the family members followed by a delicious feast. People also visit friends and relatives exchanging sweets and greetings.
• The third day Māṭṭu Pongal, is for offering thanks to cattle for its help in agriculture. On this day, Jallikaṭṭu (taming the wild bull) contest is conducted in some parts of Tamil Nāḍu to mark the occasion.
• The final day is Kāṇum Pongal,(Kāṇum means ‘to see’) and as the name indicates , people visit places like beaches, parks and other picnic spots to socialize with people. Houses are decorated with Kolam as a part of these festivities.