Pongal is a multi-day harvest festival in India.
It is one of the most important festivals for Tamilians.
This festival is the only festival to follow solar calendar and falls on the 14th January of every year.
The festival is celebrated for four days.
The first day is known as Bhofi Pongal. On this day people clean their houses and decorate it with 'Kolam' which a floor design with white paste of rice.
The second day is known as Surya Pongal. On This day rice is boiled in an earthern pot with turmeric tied to it. This is offered to the Sun god.
The third day is Mattu Pongal. On this day cattles are worshipped. They also play a traditional sport called Jallikattu.
The last day is known as Kaanum Pongal when all the offerings are placed on a plate in the courtyard. All the women together pray for properity and their brother's well-being in particular.
Pongal is also the name of a sweet preparation made using moong dal, rice and jaggery. It is one of important delicacies prepared on this day.