Happy Pongal 2024! Date, history, significance, wishes and more

livemint.com:

Tamil Nadu every January. This year, the celebrations will begin on January 15 and conclude on January 18, marking a period of Thanksgiving for the bountiful harvest. Pongal is more than just a festival occasion, it's a cultural event with a rich history and a profound reverence for the natural world.

Its origins can be found in traditional Tamil farming methods, and its customs show a peaceful coexistence with the land and its resources. Date: This year, the four-day festival will commence on January 15 with Bhogi Pongal, followed by Thai Pongal on January 16, Mattu Pongal on January 17, and Kannam Pongal on January 18. History: It is said that Pongal has been around for over 2,000 years, while many people believe its celebration was observed during the time of the Chola Empire.

Pongal is considered an old festival, having its origins in the Sangam Period (200 BC–300 AD). Originally, it was a Dravidian harvest festival but finds mention in Sanskrit Puranas too. Significance: Pongal preparation holds symbolic significance.

Fertility is represented by the rice which is cooked with milk and stands for prosperity, while jaggery represents the sweetness of life. The offering to the sun acknowledges the source of all life, and the overflowing pot represents abundance. Wishes, quotes, and messages: Take a look at various quotes and wishes to share with your loved ones below, - Happy Pongal to you and your family! May the harvest of your hard work yield a bountiful crop of achievements, and may the festival bring you prosperity in abundance.