A Quieter Pongal Celebration But Still Meaningful

---

 
Devotees praying during the Ponggal celebration at the Aru Megu Sree Veera Hanuma Temple, in Brickfields. -NSTP/HAZREEN MOHAMADKUALA LUMPUR: Many people are celebrating Pongal on a moderate scale this year.They are opting to celebrate the occasion at home with close family members.
Even though devotees were seen observing the traditions in temples today, they were mindful as to make these events very brief to abide by the Covid-19 pandemic's standard operating procedures.
A New Straits Times survey in Brickfields today revealed that many temples in the area held their Pongal celebrations early in the morning.
Shasi Kumar, 24, said despite the quieter celebrations since Covid-19 struck, many devotees made sure they continued to mark the traditions of Pongal.
He said the celebration is meant to express gratitude to mother nature for enhancing the crops of farmers.

Devotees cooking milk as part of the Pongal celebration in Brickfields. - NSTP/HAZREEN MOHAMAD
Shasi said Pongal's traditions can be traced back to when farmers gave thanks for blessings such as the rain, sun and even animals which all play their part in a bountiful harvest.
However, he explained that the celebration was also a time for people to visit family and friends.
He said his family would usually celebrate Pongal for four days, the last of which was for family gatherings.
Shasi said each of the four days represent different aspects of the celebration, namely Bhogi Pongal, Surya Pongal or Thai Pongal, Maattu Pongal and Kaanum Pongal.
"Bhogi Pongal is the first day and it is to celebrate the presence of Lord Indra (god of rain). The second day is to celebrate Surya Pongal and this day is dedicated to Lord Sun or Surya Dev."
Shasi said the third day was Maattu Pongal and it is for expressing gratitude to the cow, cattle and bullock as they provide agriculture support such as dairy products and fertilisers.
He said Kaanum Pongal marks the last day of Pongal and it is about celebrating the bonds between people.
"That is when people gather with their friends and family members," he said.
Meanwhile, a 45-year-old man in Brickfields who wanted to be known only as Muthamilselvam said he chose not to have a big celebration for Pongal this year due to work commitments.
He said it was difficult for him to make time for a grand celebration with friends and family because he was working today. - NST

---