Family Celebrates Pongol

The family of A. Gunasegaran celebrated Pongol at their house in Buntong. Pongol which literally means “boiling over” is celebrated by Tamils across the world to mark the harvesting of the bounteous crops in the fields. Normally referred as Thai Pongol, it is celebrated through the first three days of Thai month which falls during mid-January. 

The day begins with the making of Kolams (ground patterns made out of rice flour) at the entrance of homes preferably before sunrise. Every household prides itself on making the most exquisite kolam. The reason for using rice flour is that insects would feed on it and bless the household.

Sweet rice, known as Pongol is cooked in a new earthenware pot, normally in the porch of the house where poosai or prayer would also be performed. Fresh tumeric, ginger and leaves of mango trees are tied around this pot. A delicious concoction of rice, dhal, unrefined sugar and milk is boiled in the pot on an open fire. Every member of the family adds milk and rice to the pot. The Pongol is allowed to boil over and spill out of the pot. When Pongol starts to boil over, the people shout “pongalo pongal”. The Pongol is offered to God first on a new banana leaf along with traditional delicacies like vadai and payasam and then members of the family eat.

The following day is known as Maattu Pongol or Pongol of the cow, a day dedicated to the revered cow. The third day is called Kaanum Pongol or Visiting Pongol during which day bonds between friends and relatives are re-strengthened by visiting their homes and sharing thoughts of love and care.

AJ