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The harvest celebrated, Pongal, is a celebration of nature’s bounty with the authentic flavours of Tamil Nadu. Also known as Uttarayan in Gujarat and Makar Sankranti in the Northern states of India, the whole country rejoices with fresh produce. The common practices include praying to Lord Indra, communal dining, and enjoying traditional dishes.
While in most of the other states, the harvest festivals are observed for one day, Pongal is celebrated for four days. Starting on the 14th of January, here are the dates, times, and significance of the festival, as well as traditional dishes to prepare for Pongal.
Date And Time For Pongal 2025
Celebrated primarily in Tamil Nadu and other parts of Southern India, Pongal is a joyous 4-day harvest festival. Pongal 2025 will be celebrated from the 14th of January to the 17th of January. The four days of Pongal are – Bhogi Pongal, Surya Pongal, Mattu Pongal, and Kaanum Pongal. The auspicious time to start the festivities starts at 9:03 AM each day.
Cultural Significance Of Pongal
The word “Pongal” itself means – to boil or overflow. It symbolises the abundant produce, suggesting the harvest season. Thus, in order to express gratitude for nature and fresh grains, people get together to celebrate with family rituals, prayers, and a traditional feast.
Traditional Dishes Prepared During Pongal
Sakkarai Pongal
Sakkarai Pongal, the traditional sweet dish, can be made with freshly harvested rice grains, moong dal, gur, and ghee. Once cooked, it is garnished with lots of dry fruits and nuts. To give the dish an authentic appeal, it can be served in a clay pot or on a banana leaf.
Ven Pongal
Ven Pongal is the savoury variant of the festive dish. Instead of adding jaggery to rice and moong dal, it is made with tadka. It can contain the usual spices like black pepper, cumin seeds, curry leaves, red chilli powder, and salt. Having a slightly spicy profile, it can be paired with a soothing serving of coconut chutney.
Medu Vada
The South Indian staple, medu vada has its own place in the festive feast of Pongal. The deep-fried fritters are made with urad dal batter and the go-to spices. With a distinct hole in the centre, they are served with sambar and chutney.
Avial
Avial is another South Indian special that is made with assorted vegetables cooked in coconut-based gravy. Spiced with drumsticks and curry leaves and cooked with raw bananas and curd, Avial is a must-have on Pongal.
Payasam
For something sweet, you can make the rich milk-based dessert, Payasam. It can be simply prepared by simmering rice in milk with sugar and cardamom. Further garnished with chopped nuts and saffron, you can serve this super indulgent traditional dessert.
