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While all Indians
festivals are celebrated with equal aplomb in Chennai, the exciting
local festival of Pongal-the four-day
Harvest
Festival
is celebrated
all over the state in January. The festival begins on the last day
of the Tamil month with Bhogi Pongal followed by Surya Pongal on the
next day. It is on this day that Chakkara Pongal, a delicacy of
harvested rice cooked with jaggery, ghee and cashew must is offered
to the sun God. The third day, Mattu Pongal is dedicated to the
Cattle when cows are bathed and adorned with colourful beads and
flowers. Jallikattu, the bullfight is held on the last day known as
Kannum Pongal.
If you are in Chennai
between mid-December and mid-January don’t miss the Festival of
Carnatic Music and Dance. Experience the evocative
raagas and
haunting melodies, or the captivating Indian classical dancers
moving gracefully to the rhythm of music. At this prestigious event
the most renowned classical dancers and musicians from all over the
country come together to perform at various music academies.
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