KUCHING: Hindus worldwide, along with communities who celebrate rice as a staple food, observed Pongal Day today (Jan 14), marking a significant cultural and harvest festival that resonates with themes of gratitude and renewal.
Speaking during a Pongal celebration at the Sri Srinivasagar Kaliamman Temple, president of the Hindu Temple Association Kuching V. Sahundararaju explained the festival’s essence, likening it to Sarawak’s Gawai Festival.
“Pongal is a thanksgiving celebration practiced after the harvest season. The first rice harvested is offered to the deities as a gesture of gratitude for the yield.
“This tradition, deeply rooted in agricultural practices, reflects the reverence for the land and its bounty,” he said.
“The festival, which is considered more auspicious than Deepavali in parts of India, spans three days. Today, the main Pongal celebration marks the first day of the Tamil month of Thai.
“On the second day, a thanksgiving ceremony is held for cows, acknowledging their crucial role in agriculture. The third day, known as the girls’ Pongal, celebrates women and their contributions to the community.
“The festivities begin with Bhogi on the eve of Pongal, a day dedicated to burning old items to symbolise a fresh start,” he added.
While originally tied to agrarian communities, Pongal has evolved into a worldwide festival. “Although we don’t plant paddy here, Indians and others who consume rice daily still celebrate it,” he noted.
Central to the celebration is the preparation of Pongal rice. Cooked with sweeteners such as brown sugar, rock sugar and red sugar, the dish represents abundance and joy.
The sweetness of Pongal rice reflects the hope for a prosperous year ahead.
Sahundararaju conveyed his heartfelt wishes to all Hindus and everyone who cherishes rice as a staple, expressing hopes for a joyful and gratitude-filled Pongal celebration.
