How to Make Pongal

On the first day of Thai, after sunrise. In the front yard of the house, if you have space.

Next: 15 January 2027, Friday · Thai 1

Significance

This is a pooja to thank the Sun and nature. The happiest moment of this pooja is when the milk boils over in the pot.

Draw kolams at the front door and at the place where you will cook the pongal.
Tie the turmeric and ginger bunches around the neck of the pot and put a pottu on it.
Facing the direction where the Sun can be seen, place the pot on the stove and pour in milk or water.
When the milk boils over, the whole family happily calls out “Pongalo Pongal!”
Add the rice and let it cook, then add jaggery, ghee and cashew nuts to finish the pongal.
Place the pongal, sugarcane, fruits and coconut on a banana leaf and offer them to the Sun.
Show the camphor aarathi and pray to the Sun.
Share the prasadam with your family and neighbours.

In flats, you can cook the pongal in the kitchen and offer it to the Sun in the pooja room or on the balcony.

This is only a general guide. If your family custom is different, follow that. Ask your elders and your priest.