Pongal 2026: Dates, Rituals, and Significance of Tamil Nadu's Harvest Festival Revealed

• Pongal 2026, Tamil Nadu's vital harvest festival, will be celebrated from January 14 to January 17, coinciding with Makar Sankranti and Magh Bihu.
• The festival expresses gratitude to nature, the Sun God, and cattle for prosperity; 'Pongal' means 'to rise or overflow,' symbolizing abundance.
• Thai Pongal, the main day on January 14, includes preparing Sakkarai Pongal and offering prayers to Lord Surya; Sankranti time is 03:13 PM.
• The four-day celebration features Bhogi Pandigai (renewal, Lord Indra), Mattu Pongal (honoring cattle, Jallikattu), and Kaanum Pongal (family bonding).
• Pongal signifies hope, new beginnings, and spiritual positivity, highlighting the deep bond between farmers, land, and divine blessings.

Why It Matters: Pongal 2026 celebrates harvest, gratitude, and community over four days in Tamil Nadu.