Pongle

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of the people in Tamil Nadu, which gets its main rains from the northeastern monsoon in October and November. The harvest is gathered in the period just preceding this Pongal festival.

This festival of Pongal falls in the month of January after the winter solstice. As such, this Pongal festival marks the favourable course of the Sun. It is a three-day festival. The fourth day is a day for outdoors and excursions.

The first day is celebrated as the Bhogi Pongal. It is usually meant for domestic activities and of being together with the family members. This first day is celebrated in honour of Lord Indra, the supreme ruler of clouds that give rains. Homage is paid to Lord Indra for the abundance of harvest, thereby bringing plenty and prosperity to the land.

An interesting story is told. Indra Dev, being worshipped by all on this day, became proud and arrogant. To teach him a lesson, Lord Krishna asked his shepherd friends to worship Mount Govardhan on Bhogi Pongal day, ...

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the Sun God. On this day the granaries are full. Sun shines brightly. Trees are in full bloom. Bird-songs resound in the air. Hearts overflow with happiness that gets translated into colourful and joyous celebrations. A plank is placed on the ground. Kolam designs are drawn on its sides.

In the centre of the plank is drawn a large figure of the Sun God with his effulgent rays. The 'Puja' of the Sun God starts after the auspicious moment of the birth of the new month. Prayers are rendered to the Sun God to seek his benedictions.

The word Pongal literally has two connotations. Firstly it is the name of the special dish cooked on this day. Secondly the word Ponga means boil. So the ...

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