January in Tamil Nadu is always special because it brings with it the grand harvest festival of Pongal. In 2026, Pongal will be celebrated from January 14 to January 17. For the Tamil community, this is not just a festival but a way of giving thanks to the Sun God, Mother Nature, and the farmers who work tirelessly to feed us.
The celebrations are marked by colourful kolams (rangolis) at the entrance of every home, the sharing of sugarcane and sweets, and the preparation of the delicious Pongal dish made from rice, milk, and jaggery. Families and friends come together to eat, exchange gifts, and take part in rituals that strengthen bonds of love and community. What makes Pongal truly unique is that each of its four days carries a special meaning and tradition.
Bhogi Pongal – January 14, 2026
The festival begins with Bhogi Pongal, a day that symbolizes renewal. People clean their homes thoroughly, discard old and unwanted items, and light bonfires to mark the burning away of negativity. These flames represent a fresh start for the new harvest season.
Families wear new clothes, decorate their homes with bright colours, and draw kolams at the doorstep to welcome prosperity. Bhogi sets the perfect mood for the days to come, reminding everyone that a good harvest begins with gratitude and positivity.
Thai Pongal – January 15, 2026
The second day, Thai Pongal (also known as Surya Pongal), is the most important of the four. It marks the first day of the Tamil month Thai and coincides with Makar Sankranti, which is celebrated across India.
On this day, people prepare the signature dish Pongal by boiling freshly harvested rice with milk and jaggery in an earthen pot. When the milk boils over, it is seen as a sign of prosperity and abundance. Families then offer this Pongal, along with sugarcane, coconut, and bananas, to the Sun God as thanksgiving.
In many villages and towns, women gather in open spaces to cook Pongal together, singing folk songs and celebrating in unison. This act of community cooking is one of the most cherished traditions of the festival.
Mattu Pongal – January 16, 2026
The third day, Mattu Pongal, is dedicated to cattle, who play an essential role in farming and rural life. On this day, cows and bulls are bathed, their horns are painted in bright colours, and they are adorned with flowers and bells. They are then offered Pongal and other treats as a gesture of gratitude.
Farmers honour their cattle with rituals and perform aarti to show respect. In some regions, especially around Madurai, this day is also marked by the traditional sport of Jallikattu — a bull-taming event that is deeply rooted in Tamil culture.
Kaanum Pongal – January 17, 2026
The last day, Kaanum Pongal, is about socializing and strengthening family ties. The word Kaanum means “to see,” and this day is spent visiting relatives, friends, and neighbours. Families gather for outdoor picnics, share sugarcane and sweets, and enjoy festive meals together.
It is also a day when brothers and sisters exchange wishes for each other’s well-being. Many people wear new clothes, display jewellery, and celebrate in a spirit of togetherness. The cheerful atmosphere of Kaanum Pongal makes it a fitting finale to the four-day festival.
The Essence of Pongal
At its heart, Pongal is about gratitude, unity, and respect for nature. Each day teaches a simple lesson: Bhogi is about renewal, Thai is about thanksgiving, Mattu is about honouring animals, and Kaanum is about cherishing relationships.
From the aroma of sweet Pongal rising from every kitchen to the sight of vibrant kolams decorating the streets, the festival radiates joy and abundance. Pongal reminds us that life is deeply connected to nature, family, and community and that every harvest is not just food on our plates but a blessing to be celebrated.
