Pongal 2026: When is Pongal, why is it celebrated? Learn the date, significance, and method of worship.:Pongal is considered the first day of the Tamil Nadu New Year. Celebrated on January 14th, Pongal is a festival associated with the Sun.

News Topical, Digital Desk : Pongal 2026 Date: Pongal begins on January 14 and continues until January 17, 2026. Pongal is a festival marking the beginning of the New Year in Tamil Nadu. During this period, the gods awaken after a six-month long sleep to shower prosperity and wealth upon mortals. On this auspicious day, the Sun is worshipped as the life force behind all creation. Major festivals such as Makar Sankranti in North India, Lohri in Punjab, and Uttarayan in Gujarat are also celebrated during this period.

Why is Pongal celebrated?

It marks the arrival of a new crop and the end of the harvest season, honoring farmers and their hard work. It is a festival of thanksgiving to the Sun God, Mother Earth, and the cattle that help in farming.

How to celebrate Pongal

Bhogi Pongal - On the first day of Pongal, people celebrate the festival of Bhogi. During this time, the entire house is cleaned. This purifies the environment.
Surya Pongal - Surya Pongal is celebrated on the second day. After worshipping the Sun, a sweet dish called kheer (rice pudding) is prepared to celebrate the ripening of the new crops in the fields.
Mattu Pongal - This is the third day of the Pongal festival. This day is dedicated to cattle, or the cattle used for farm work. On this day, these cattle are worshipped and fed special food.
Kanum Pongal – The last day of Pongal is known as Kanum Pongal. On this day, people visit their relatives and organize social gatherings.