Thai Pongal is a joyous festival marking the beginning of the Tamil harvest season, a time of gratitude and giving thanks. A four day festival that honours the Sun, Land, Rain and Agriculture and is generally celebrated between the 14th and 17th January in the Tamil month, Thai தை.

Thai Pongal honours the Sun God, Surya, for providing light and energy that allows crops to grow, especially rice, which is significant part of this festival.

The festival dates back almost 2000 years, making this a very special and old tradition for the Tamil People.

Thai Pongal is celebrated in many different countries including India, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Malaysia, South Africa, Mauritius, Canada, UK, USA and Australia. In Canada and parts of the UK, the month of January has been designated Tamil Heritage month to coincide with Thai Pongal, celebrating the contributions that Tamil people have made to the respective countries.

Some of the traditions that take place for Pongal are:

• Preparing Pongal: The highlight of the festival is the preparation of the sweet dish, Pongal, made from rice, milk, and jaggery (a traditional sweetener made from dried sugarcane juice or palm sap). The dish is traditionally cooked in an outdoor pot until it overflows, symbolizing abundance and prosperity.
• Kolam: Flloral designs made from rice flour are drawn at the entrance of homes as a way of inviting good fortune.
• Pongal Pujas: Homes are adorned with lights and flowers, and people offer prayers to Surya, thanking him for his blessings.
• Gifts and Celebrations: Families gather to share meals, exchange gifts, and celebrate being with each other.