A cherished tradition, the four-day festival includes the preparation of the iconic sweet rice dish of its namesake, cooked in a traditional clay pot, symbolising gratitude to the sun god Surya for a bountiful harvest.
Far from being a mere religious event, Pongal is a celebration of agriculture, nature and the farmer’s life. A Radhakrishnan, president of Malaysia Hindhudharma Maamandram, shared that Pongal stands as one of the most significant festivals by Tamil communities worldwide, including in India, Sri Lanka, and other nations with a Tamil diaspora.
“The festivities, spanning four days, commence with Bhogi, a day dedicated to introspection, symbolised by the burning of old and unused household items. This ritual serves as a metaphor to reflect within and eliminate negativity, marking the initiation of a new cycle,” he told Bernama.
The festival’s central day is Thai Pongal tomorrow. Families rise early to prepare the special dish Pongal and, as the rice boils and overflows from the pot, the air is filled with cheers of “Ponggalo Pongal”, symbolising abundance and prosperity.
Elaborating on the subsequent days of celebration, Radhakrishnan said Mattu Pongal, the third day, involves worshipping cattle; while the fourth day, Kanni Pongal, sees unmarried women making Pongal and praying for good husbands.
The festival is celebrated in the 10th month of the solar Tamil calendar, Thai, marking the sun’s northward movement for six months. The Tamil adage “Thai pirandhal vazhi pirakkum” – “the advent of the month of Thai brings new opportunities” – resonates during this period.
Ganesan Thangavellu, president of Malaysia Hindu Sangam, shared auspicious times for the preparation of sweet rice this year: between 7am and 8.30am, from 10.25am to 11.52am, and from 2.30pm to 4pm.
Various events across the country, including the national unity ministry’s and MIC’s Pongal celebrations in Kuala Lumpur tomorrow, will showcase the cultural richness and unity within the Malaysian Tamil community.
Meanwhile, Kokila Vaani Vadiveloo, Selangor bar representative to the Bar Council, expressed hope that this harvest festival fills lives with overflowing joy, sweetness, and good health.
She urged everyone to share happiness with loved ones, emphasising kindness and generosity towards the less fortunate in Malaysia’s multicultural society.
“As the Pongal celebrations unfold, may the charm of traditions and the sweetness of sticky rice resonate, bringing happiness to all,” she added.