Pongal is more than just a festival; It is a four-day festival of harvest, gratitude and togetherness in Tamil Nadu. While the name “Pongal” literally means “boiling”, symbolizing abundance and prosperity, the festival is celebrated on different dates and sometimes under different names in different regions. Each day has its own unique rituals and significance, making Pongal a festival rich in culture, tradition and joy.
In 2026, Pongal will be celebrated from January 13 to 16, with each day dedicated to a specific ritual and meaning.
Four days of Pongal 2026 and their rituals
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According to Drik Panchang,
Bhogi Pongal – 13 January
The first day of Pongal, Bhogi Pongal (or Bhogi Pandigai), is all about cleaning and discarding old things to welcome new beginnings.
Custom:
Discarding old and unused wooden objects
Burning of bonfire with thrown objects, called Bhogi Mantalu
Cleaning houses as a symbol of new beginnings
Making colorful rangoli (kolam) outside the houses
bursting crackers early in the morning
This day symbolizes spiritual purification, renewal and preparation for abundance.
Thai Pongal – 14 January
Thai Pongal is the most important day of the festival. It coincides with Makar Sankranti and marks the first day of the Tamil month Thai.
On this day, families prepare a sweet Pongal dish made of rice, milk and jaggery, which is cooked in an earthen pot and allowed to boil while chanting “Pongalo Pongal”, symbolizing abundant prosperity.
Custom:
wearing new clothes
Sweet Pongal is being prepared with ghee, cashew nuts, raisins and brown sugar.
First offer the dish to Lord Surya and Lord Ganesha.
Illustration of elaborate kolam outside houses
This day is a celebration of expressing gratitude to the Sun God for a bountiful harvest.
Mattu Pongal – 15 January
Mattu Pongal is dedicated to cows and bulls, recognizing their important role in agriculture and rural life.
Custom:
bathing and grooming cattle
painting and polishing their horns
decorate them with garlands
Organizing community processions to honor cattle
Participating in traditional events like Jallikattu in Tamil Nadu
The day emphasizes respect and gratitude towards animals that sustain farming and livelihoods.
Kanum Pongal – 16 January
Kanum Pongal is a day for family, friends and community bonding. It is a relaxing, joyous day marked by gatherings and celebrations.
Custom:
meeting relatives and elders
sought blessings from family members
Playing traditional games like Uri Adithal (breaking a hanging pot) and Vazhukku Maram (slippery pole)
enjoying community feasts and outings
The day represents togetherness, celebration and community harmony.
Pongal 2026 is a festival that beautifully blends spirituality, tradition and happiness. From cleaning and renovation on Bhogi Pongal to expressing gratitude to the Sun God on Thai Pongal, respecting animals on Mattu Pongal and celebrating with family on Kanum Pongal, each day brings its own charm. More than just a harvest festival, Pongal is a time to cherish abundance, togetherness and gratitude, making it one of the most loved festivals in Tamil Nadu and beyond.
(This article is for your general information only. Zee News does not confirm its accuracy or reliability.)