Ponggal and Tamil New Year festivals are celebrated by Tamils. There is confusion over whether Ponggal on the first day of the Tamil month Thai is the Tamil New Year or if it is the Hindu calendar month of Chitirai in April. Several conventions of Tamil scholars have declared Ponggal on the first of Thai as the Tamil New Year based on it being a non-religious agricultural festival mentioned in ancient Tamil literature. However, some religionists and media promote Chitirai as the Tamil New Year, creating ongoing confusion and debate over Tamil calendar and New Year traditions.
India celebrates several New Year's Days according to its various lunar and solar calendars. Some of the main New Year festivals in India include:
1) Baisakhi/Vaisakhi celebrated in Punjab in April marks the Sikh new year.
2) Bestu Varas celebrated in Gujarat after Diwali in October/November.
3) Rongali Bihu celebrated in Assam in mid-April marking the Assamese new year.
4) Ugadi celebrated in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana in March/April.
This document discusses the different types of festivals celebrated in India including national festivals like Republic Day and Independence Day, religious festivals like Diwali and Holi, and harvest festivals like Pongal and Makar Sankranti. It provides details on the history, significance and traditions associated with each festival. The festivals help bring communities together and promote social cohesion by sharing cultural traditions.
This document provides information on festivals celebrated in India, China, Japan, and the UK. It describes some of the most prominent festivals in each country, including Diwali and Holi in India; Spring Festival, Lantern Festival, and Mid-Autumn Festival in China; Sapporo Snow Festival, Aoi Matsuri, and Nebuta Matsuri in Japan; and Glastonbury Festival, Secret Garden Party, and Bestival in the UK. The festivals celebrate various religious, seasonal, and cultural traditions through activities like parades, fireworks, dancing, and traditional foods.
New Year's Day is celebrated on different dates in various parts of India according to their regional calendars. Some of the main New Year's Days celebrated in India include Ugadi (Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh), Bohag Bihu (Assam), Gudi Padwa (Maharashtra), Puthandu (Tamil Nadu), Vishu (Kerala), Cheiraoba (Manipur), Navreh (Kashmir), and Mahabishuba Sankranti (Odisha). These festivals celebrate the beginning of the new year and spring season with rituals like kolam/rangoli drawings, worship, new clothes, and special feasts.
The document provides information about various festivals celebrated in India. It discusses Diwali, the festival of lights, which is a major Hindu festival celebrated in October/November. It is celebrated by lighting small oil lamps and decorating homes with lamps and rangoli designs. It also discusses Holi, the festival of colors celebrated in February/March which marks the arrival of spring. People play with colors and celebrate. It then briefly discusses Baisakhi, an important festival for Sikhs which commemorates the formation of the Khalsa Panth. It is also celebrated as a harvest festival in Punjab. The document concludes by providing a short description of Christmas which is celebrated by Christians in December to mark the birth of Jesus Christ.
Indian festivals are an important part of Indian culture and are celebrated throughout the year for various religious, seasonal, and national occasions. There are three main types of festivals in India: national festivals which celebrate important events like Independence Day and Republic Day; religious festivals which are associated with various faiths like Diwali, Holi, and Durga Puja; and seasonal festivals that coincide with agricultural harvest periods and changes in season. Festivals are deeply ingrained in Indian society and bring people together to celebrate traditions as well as mark important historical and cultural milestones. They play an important role in preserving Indian heritage and customs for future generations.
1) According to Hindu tradition, the first sunrise of the Chaitra month marks the creation of the world by Brahma and the start of the new year.
2) Cheti Chand is celebrated by Sindhis as the birthday of their patron saint Jhulelal and as the Sindhi new year. It falls in March or April during the waxing phase of the moon in the Sindhi Chet month.
3) India celebrates new years according to both the solar and lunar calendars, with festivals varying by region and culture according to different calendar systems.
The document provides an overview of major festivals celebrated in India by different religious groups. It discusses Hindu festivals like Diwali, Dussehra, Ganesh Chaturthi, Krishna Janmashtami, Makar Sankranti, Pongal, and Ram Navami. It also summarizes some important Muslim festivals such as Id-ul-Fitr, Id-Ul-Zuha, Id-e-Milad and Muharram. It briefly mentions the Christian festival of Christmas and the Jain festival of Pajushan. The document emphasizes that India is known for its diverse religious traditions and celebration of various cultural festivals.
India celebrates several New Year's Days according to its various lunar and solar calendars. Some of the main New Year festivals in India include:
1) Baisakhi/Vaisakhi celebrated in Punjab in April marks the Sikh new year.
2) Bestu Varas celebrated in Gujarat after Diwali in October/November.
3) Rongali Bihu celebrated in Assam in mid-April marking the Assamese new year.
4) Ugadi celebrated in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana in March/April.
This document discusses the different types of festivals celebrated in India including national festivals like Republic Day and Independence Day, religious festivals like Diwali and Holi, and harvest festivals like Pongal and Makar Sankranti. It provides details on the history, significance and traditions associated with each festival. The festivals help bring communities together and promote social cohesion by sharing cultural traditions.
This document provides information on festivals celebrated in India, China, Japan, and the UK. It describes some of the most prominent festivals in each country, including Diwali and Holi in India; Spring Festival, Lantern Festival, and Mid-Autumn Festival in China; Sapporo Snow Festival, Aoi Matsuri, and Nebuta Matsuri in Japan; and Glastonbury Festival, Secret Garden Party, and Bestival in the UK. The festivals celebrate various religious, seasonal, and cultural traditions through activities like parades, fireworks, dancing, and traditional foods.
New Year's Day is celebrated on different dates in various parts of India according to their regional calendars. Some of the main New Year's Days celebrated in India include Ugadi (Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh), Bohag Bihu (Assam), Gudi Padwa (Maharashtra), Puthandu (Tamil Nadu), Vishu (Kerala), Cheiraoba (Manipur), Navreh (Kashmir), and Mahabishuba Sankranti (Odisha). These festivals celebrate the beginning of the new year and spring season with rituals like kolam/rangoli drawings, worship, new clothes, and special feasts.
The document provides information about various festivals celebrated in India. It discusses Diwali, the festival of lights, which is a major Hindu festival celebrated in October/November. It is celebrated by lighting small oil lamps and decorating homes with lamps and rangoli designs. It also discusses Holi, the festival of colors celebrated in February/March which marks the arrival of spring. People play with colors and celebrate. It then briefly discusses Baisakhi, an important festival for Sikhs which commemorates the formation of the Khalsa Panth. It is also celebrated as a harvest festival in Punjab. The document concludes by providing a short description of Christmas which is celebrated by Christians in December to mark the birth of Jesus Christ.
Indian festivals are an important part of Indian culture and are celebrated throughout the year for various religious, seasonal, and national occasions. There are three main types of festivals in India: national festivals which celebrate important events like Independence Day and Republic Day; religious festivals which are associated with various faiths like Diwali, Holi, and Durga Puja; and seasonal festivals that coincide with agricultural harvest periods and changes in season. Festivals are deeply ingrained in Indian society and bring people together to celebrate traditions as well as mark important historical and cultural milestones. They play an important role in preserving Indian heritage and customs for future generations.
1) According to Hindu tradition, the first sunrise of the Chaitra month marks the creation of the world by Brahma and the start of the new year.
2) Cheti Chand is celebrated by Sindhis as the birthday of their patron saint Jhulelal and as the Sindhi new year. It falls in March or April during the waxing phase of the moon in the Sindhi Chet month.
3) India celebrates new years according to both the solar and lunar calendars, with festivals varying by region and culture according to different calendar systems.
The document provides an overview of major festivals celebrated in India by different religious groups. It discusses Hindu festivals like Diwali, Dussehra, Ganesh Chaturthi, Krishna Janmashtami, Makar Sankranti, Pongal, and Ram Navami. It also summarizes some important Muslim festivals such as Id-ul-Fitr, Id-Ul-Zuha, Id-e-Milad and Muharram. It briefly mentions the Christian festival of Christmas and the Jain festival of Pajushan. The document emphasizes that India is known for its diverse religious traditions and celebration of various cultural festivals.
Carers -Thoughts, Ideas and Use of the InternetPhil COLLIS
This document provides guidance for organizations on developing online services and support for carers. It was produced by Crossroads Care and The Princess Royal Trust for Carers, two leading organizations for carers in the UK. The document discusses the benefits of the internet for reaching carers, many of whom have difficulty leaving home. It also addresses challenges of digital exclusion and providing support online. The document provides recommendations on different types of online support, including information websites, forums, networks of support, and online breaks booking. It is based on consultation with carers about their needs and preferences for online resources.
La planificación de un cuento es la primera parte del proceso de escritura. Su objetivo es que los escritores se formen una idea mental del cuento antes de escribirlo. En esta etapa, los escritores reflexionan sobre aspectos como el contenido y estilo del cuento para determinar cómo será el texto final.
Joe Pulizzi and 59 other content marketing thought leaders and practitioners offer their best content predictions for 2015. Take a look at predictions from Jay Baer, Michael Brenner, Lee Odden, Kristen Hicks, Pawan Deshpande, Dayna Rothman, Doug Kessler and so many others. Leave a comment with your own content prediction!
La Unión Europea ha acordado un paquete de sanciones contra Rusia por su invasión de Ucrania. Las sanciones incluyen restricciones a las importaciones de productos rusos de alta tecnología y a las exportaciones de bienes de lujo a Rusia. Además, se congelarán los activos de varios oligarcas rusos y se prohibirá el acceso de los bancos rusos a los mercados financieros de la UE.
The three key principles of project management are planning, communication, and risk management. Planning involves defining the project activities, schedule, resources, and dependencies. Communication involves regularly informing all stakeholders about the project. Risk management involves identifying, evaluating, and mitigating potential risks to the project. Regular monitoring and adaptation are also important aspects of effective project management.
Koleksikaranganutkmrdgalus 140226120240-phpapp02joyce wong
Karangan ini menceritakan tentang rencana untuk berlibur ke kampung selama seminggu pada cuti sekolah. Siswa ini akan pergi ke kampung bersama dua orang teman menaiki bas, lalu menaiki teksi ke rumah datuk. Mereka berencana untuk bersiar-siar dan memancing ikan di sungai.
Este documento habla sobre la importancia de la educación y la necesidad de proporcionar acceso a la educación para todos. En 3 oraciones resume que la educación es fundamental para el desarrollo de las personas y la sociedad, pero que aún hay barreras que impiden que algunos obtengan educación. Finalmente, enfatiza la necesidad de trabajar juntos para superar esos obstáculos y asegurar que la educación esté disponible universalmente.
The document summarizes a story about a kind girl named Noni. On her way to school, Noni saw a beggar sitting under a tree who was shivering from hunger. She felt sorry for him and gave him food from her lunch box. The beggar ate all the food and thanked Noni for her kindness, smiling. Noni continued to school feeling happy that she helped the beggar.
The document provides an overview of the format and content of the UPSR English exam for Year 4, 5 and 6 students in Malaysia. The exam consists of two papers: Paper 1 has 5 sections testing vocabulary, social expressions, grammar, and comprehension; Paper 2 focuses on writing skills. Paper 1 contains 40 multiple choice questions covering a range of language skills to assess students' understanding and knowledge of English.
India is known for its different traditions and cultures. Here, each festival holds special mythological and traditional significance to Indian people.
Informative, colorful and animated presentation about some (specifically seven festivals are mentioned in the ppt) out of the many festivals India is known for. Hope this presentation helps you!
THIS POWER POINT PRESENTATION PROVIDES US WITH THE BASIC AND FUNDAMENTAL INFORMATION ON INDIAN FESTIVALS . IN THIS PRESENTATION WE HAVE PROVIDED INFORMATION ON THE FESTIVALS LIKE DIWALI,HOLI, DUSSEHRA.DURGA PUJA AND ONAM IN A VERY UNIQUE AND PICTORIAL MANNER
The document discusses an online quiz on the festivals of India being conducted by Partha Gupta on his Facebook page. It provides details of the quiz such as the topic of "Festivals of India", the date and time of 10 pm, and the ways for participants to provide answers via WhatsApp, SMS or Facebook Messenger. The time limit to answer the 10 questions is 1 hour.
India is a land of diversity. The long history of India has exposed it to many cultural and political transformations and as a result, the country is now a proud conglomeration of diverse traditions.
Bangladesh celebrates many religious, seasonal, and modern festivals. Religious festivals include Eid-ul Fitr (end of Ramadan), Eid-ul Adha, Durga Puja (Hindu festival celebrated over 5 days), Buddha Purnima (Buddha's birthday in Baishakh month), and Christmas (Christians attend prayers and decorate churches). Seasonal festivals are Pohela Boishakh (first day of Bengali calendar year, known for Panta Hilsa fish) and Pohela Falgun (first day of spring, women wear yellow saris). Modern festivals include Father's Day (third Sunday of June) and Mother's Day (celebrated in March
India is the only country where so many fairs and festivals are onganized......
every month has numerous festivals....
these all festivals enhance indian culture and enrich it....
All the festivals can't be described in a small ppt but tried to cover the major fests....
for more details contact-
anishrajgoyal09rockstar@gmail.com
Carers -Thoughts, Ideas and Use of the InternetPhil COLLIS
This document provides guidance for organizations on developing online services and support for carers. It was produced by Crossroads Care and The Princess Royal Trust for Carers, two leading organizations for carers in the UK. The document discusses the benefits of the internet for reaching carers, many of whom have difficulty leaving home. It also addresses challenges of digital exclusion and providing support online. The document provides recommendations on different types of online support, including information websites, forums, networks of support, and online breaks booking. It is based on consultation with carers about their needs and preferences for online resources.
La planificación de un cuento es la primera parte del proceso de escritura. Su objetivo es que los escritores se formen una idea mental del cuento antes de escribirlo. En esta etapa, los escritores reflexionan sobre aspectos como el contenido y estilo del cuento para determinar cómo será el texto final.
Joe Pulizzi and 59 other content marketing thought leaders and practitioners offer their best content predictions for 2015. Take a look at predictions from Jay Baer, Michael Brenner, Lee Odden, Kristen Hicks, Pawan Deshpande, Dayna Rothman, Doug Kessler and so many others. Leave a comment with your own content prediction!
La Unión Europea ha acordado un paquete de sanciones contra Rusia por su invasión de Ucrania. Las sanciones incluyen restricciones a las importaciones de productos rusos de alta tecnología y a las exportaciones de bienes de lujo a Rusia. Además, se congelarán los activos de varios oligarcas rusos y se prohibirá el acceso de los bancos rusos a los mercados financieros de la UE.
The three key principles of project management are planning, communication, and risk management. Planning involves defining the project activities, schedule, resources, and dependencies. Communication involves regularly informing all stakeholders about the project. Risk management involves identifying, evaluating, and mitigating potential risks to the project. Regular monitoring and adaptation are also important aspects of effective project management.
Koleksikaranganutkmrdgalus 140226120240-phpapp02joyce wong
Karangan ini menceritakan tentang rencana untuk berlibur ke kampung selama seminggu pada cuti sekolah. Siswa ini akan pergi ke kampung bersama dua orang teman menaiki bas, lalu menaiki teksi ke rumah datuk. Mereka berencana untuk bersiar-siar dan memancing ikan di sungai.
Este documento habla sobre la importancia de la educación y la necesidad de proporcionar acceso a la educación para todos. En 3 oraciones resume que la educación es fundamental para el desarrollo de las personas y la sociedad, pero que aún hay barreras que impiden que algunos obtengan educación. Finalmente, enfatiza la necesidad de trabajar juntos para superar esos obstáculos y asegurar que la educación esté disponible universalmente.
The document summarizes a story about a kind girl named Noni. On her way to school, Noni saw a beggar sitting under a tree who was shivering from hunger. She felt sorry for him and gave him food from her lunch box. The beggar ate all the food and thanked Noni for her kindness, smiling. Noni continued to school feeling happy that she helped the beggar.
The document provides an overview of the format and content of the UPSR English exam for Year 4, 5 and 6 students in Malaysia. The exam consists of two papers: Paper 1 has 5 sections testing vocabulary, social expressions, grammar, and comprehension; Paper 2 focuses on writing skills. Paper 1 contains 40 multiple choice questions covering a range of language skills to assess students' understanding and knowledge of English.
India is known for its different traditions and cultures. Here, each festival holds special mythological and traditional significance to Indian people.
Informative, colorful and animated presentation about some (specifically seven festivals are mentioned in the ppt) out of the many festivals India is known for. Hope this presentation helps you!
THIS POWER POINT PRESENTATION PROVIDES US WITH THE BASIC AND FUNDAMENTAL INFORMATION ON INDIAN FESTIVALS . IN THIS PRESENTATION WE HAVE PROVIDED INFORMATION ON THE FESTIVALS LIKE DIWALI,HOLI, DUSSEHRA.DURGA PUJA AND ONAM IN A VERY UNIQUE AND PICTORIAL MANNER
The document discusses an online quiz on the festivals of India being conducted by Partha Gupta on his Facebook page. It provides details of the quiz such as the topic of "Festivals of India", the date and time of 10 pm, and the ways for participants to provide answers via WhatsApp, SMS or Facebook Messenger. The time limit to answer the 10 questions is 1 hour.
India is a land of diversity. The long history of India has exposed it to many cultural and political transformations and as a result, the country is now a proud conglomeration of diverse traditions.
Bangladesh celebrates many religious, seasonal, and modern festivals. Religious festivals include Eid-ul Fitr (end of Ramadan), Eid-ul Adha, Durga Puja (Hindu festival celebrated over 5 days), Buddha Purnima (Buddha's birthday in Baishakh month), and Christmas (Christians attend prayers and decorate churches). Seasonal festivals are Pohela Boishakh (first day of Bengali calendar year, known for Panta Hilsa fish) and Pohela Falgun (first day of spring, women wear yellow saris). Modern festivals include Father's Day (third Sunday of June) and Mother's Day (celebrated in March
India is the only country where so many fairs and festivals are onganized......
every month has numerous festivals....
these all festivals enhance indian culture and enrich it....
All the festivals can't be described in a small ppt but tried to cover the major fests....
for more details contact-
anishrajgoyal09rockstar@gmail.com
Pongal is a four day harvest festival celebrated in India, especially in the Tamil community. It marks the start of the Tamil month Thai and involves preparing rice pudding called pongal. The first day Bhogi involves cleaning homes and lighting bonfires. The second day Surya Pongal is dedicated to the Sun God and involves preparing and offering pongal. The third day Mattu Pongal honors cattle. The fourth day Kanum Pongal involves offering leftovers from previous days' celebrations.
Visitors to Tibet are greeted with both a very unique culture as well as a unique environment. This is a place where you will really feel as if you are in another planet. Here in this post we will talk about some of the top festivals to explore during your Tiber tours.
Festivals in India can be categorized as national festivals, religious festivals, or harvest festivals. National festivals include Republic Day, Independence Day, and Gandhi Jayanti which commemorate historical independence events. Religious festivals celebrate various faiths such as Diwali for Hindus, Holi for Hindus, and Raksha Bandhan for Hindus and Sikhs. Harvest festivals occur varying by region and include Bihu in Assam, Pongal in Tamil Nadu, and Baisakhi in Punjab which mark the harvesting of crops.
There are three main types of festivals celebrated in India - national festivals, religious festivals, and harvest festivals. National festivals include Republic Day, Independence Day, and Gandhi Jayanti which mark important events in India's transition to becoming an independent republic. Religious festivals celebrate various faiths in India such as Diwali, Holi, and Raksha Bandhan. Harvest festivals like Pongal, Bihu, and Baisakhi are celebrated to mark the harvesting of crops at different times of the year in various parts of India.
1. The document provides information about various Hindu, Muslim, and national festivals celebrated in India such as Diwali, Holi, Dussehra, Independence Day, Republic Day, Children's Day, Christmas, Id-Ul-Fitr, Baisakhi, Onam, Pongal, Ganesh Chaturti, Rakshabandhan, and Teacher's Day.
2. It describes the origins and traditions associated with each festival, such as people lighting lamps on Diwali, applying colored powders on Holi, and enacting scenes from Ramayana on Dussehra.
3. The document was made by students named Shrey and Tanmay studying in 7
1. The document provides information about various Hindu, Muslim, and national festivals celebrated in India such as Diwali, Holi, Dussehra, Independence Day, Republic Day, Children's Day, Christmas, Id-Ul-Fitr, Baisakhi Fair, Onam, Pongal, Ganesh Chaturti, Rakshabandhan, and Teacher's Day.
2. It describes the origins and traditions associated with each festival, such as people lighting lamps on Diwali, applying colored powders on Holi, and enacting scenes from Ramayana on Dussehra.
3. The document was made by students named Shrey and Tanmay studying in
Indian festivals in august 2021 that are full of amusement and religion (1)kiran Bangarh
Festivals are the most fun part of the year. Getting together with your family, friends, and cousins celebrating and having fun leaving the routine aside for a day or two are the highlights of a lifetime.
Pongal is a multi-day Hindu harvest festival of South India,particularly in the Tamil community.
It is observed at the start of the month Tai according to Tamil solar calendar and this is typically about January 14.
It is dedicated to the Hindu sun god,the Surya, and corresponds to Makar Sankranti, the harvest festival under many regional names celebrated throughout India.
A festival is an event ordinarily celebrated by a community
and centering on some characteristic aspect of that
community and its religion or cultures. It is often marked as
a local or national holiday, such as : mela, or Eid. A festival
constitutes typical cases of globalization, as well as the high
culture-low culture interrelationship. Food is such a vital
resource that many festivals are associated with harvest
time.
India celebrates many festivals that depict its diverse culture and traditions, including Diwali, Dussehra, Independence Day, Republic Day, Gandhi Jayanti, Holi, Raksha Bandhan, and Eid Mubarak. Diwali honors the victory of good over evil and is celebrated through lights and fireworks. Dussehra commemorates Lord Rama's victory over Ravana. Independence Day and Republic Day celebrate India's independence and status as a republic. Gandhi Jayanti honors the leader Mahatma Gandhi. Holi is a festival of colors. Raksha Bandhan celebrates the bond between siblings. Eid Mubarak marks the end of Ramadan for Muslims.
The document summarizes key aspects of Bangladeshi culture, including various festivals, traditions, and religious celebrations that are an integral part of Bangladeshi society. Some of the prominent festivals and celebrations mentioned are Pohela Boishakh (Bengali New Year), Independence Day, Eid ul-Fitr, Eid ul-Adha, Durga Puja, and national days like International Mother Language Day and Victory Day. The document also briefly outlines traditions around marriage, food, arts and crafts, clothing, and the role of Islam, Hinduism, and other religions in Bangladeshi culture.
The document compares festivals celebrated in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu, India. In West Bengal, major festivals discussed include Durga Puja, Saraswati Puja, Kali Puja, Christmas, and Jamai Shashti. Festivals described for Tamil Nadu include Pongal, Navaratri, Diwali, Karthigai Deepam, and Ganesh Chaturthi. The document provides brief descriptions of each festival, including their religious or cultural significance to the respective regions.
1. Ponggal and Tamil New Year 1/23/2013
Ponggal and Tamil New Year
By Mukilan Murugasan
Ponggal festival is celebrated on the first day of Thai 1 in Thiruvalluvar Year. Since the
advent of agriculture, the Ponggal festival has been spread over four days from the last day
of Tamil month Margazhi to first three days of Tamil month Thai as Bhogi, Grand
Ponggal, Ponggal for farm animals and Ponggal for off-springs or for greeting one another.
The Thiruvalluvar Year starts on the Grand Ponggal day (Thai 1 st). Thiruvalluvar Year is
regarded as the Tamil calendar2.
Tamils celebrate Ponggal festival with great enthusiasm. On the eve of Ponggal, houses are
cleaned and washed. At the entrance of the house, sugar cane plants are kept with mango
and coconut leaves hanging. The front portion of the house is well scrubbed and cleaned
for designing a Kolam with rice powder. Greeting cards and invitations are also sent to
their nearest and dearest ones. A variety of cakes and sweets are made to be distributed
among friends and relatives.
On the Ponggal day, early in the morning, in a spot where the bright sun light falls usually
in the court-yard is chosen for the performance of cooking ponggal3. A new pot is kept on a
temporary brick stove. The new fire burns under a pot of pure milk with rice. When the
boiling of sweet milk and rice spills, they loudly voice Ponggalo Ponggal!, Ponggalo
Ponggal!.
1
Tamil month ‘Thai’ is the first month and ‘Margazhi’ the last month of Thiruvalluvar Year (Tamil Calendar).
2
Mu. Manivellian; International Conference on Thai 1 st Day the Tamil New Year; Malaysian Movement for Tamil
Culture; Kuala Lumpur; 2001; p180
3
Rice cooked in clay pot, sweetened with milk, sugar, raisins and cashew nut.
1/12
2. Ponggal and Tamil New Year 1/23/2013
Ponggal festival is a much sung and honored festival in the Tamil Literature -
Purananooru. In the Purananooru, under the chapter on the life history of Pidangkotraan,
the celebration of Ponggal festival by the farmers in South India is described in detail.
According to Tamil scholars, Ponggal festival is not mentioned anywhere in the religious
books and therefore it is a festival for Tamils.
In 1921, the Thiruvalluvar Tamil New Year Convention was held at Pachaiappan College,
Chennai under the patronage of Maraimalai Adigalar, a highly respected Tamil scholar.
About 500 Tamil scholars took part in this convention. The following declaration was
made in the convention:
“Under the name of great Saint Thiruvalluvar, the Tamil Calendar should be
followed and further, it should be taken as the birth of a new beginning (Tamil
New Year commences in the month of Thai) and Saint Thiruvalluvar’s era is 31
B.C.”4
The Taminadu government had accepted and implemented the above decision in 1971 in
all government transactions5.
1n 1935, Thanthai Periyar organized the Tiruchi Tamil Convention. The convention was
presided by Naavalar Somasundra Bharathiyar. Many highly regarded Tamil scholars in
Tamilnadu such as Maraimalai Adigalar, Tamil Thendral Thiru Vi.Ka, Tamil Kavalar K.
Subramaniam Pillai and Tamilvel P.T. Rajan attended the convention.
4
V. Vembian; International Conference on Thai 1st Day the Tamil New Year; Malaysian Movement for Tamil Culture;
Kuala Lumpur; 2001; p180
5
Universal Declaration of Thai First Day, As Tamil New Year, Kuala Lumpur-Malaysia; 6 January 2001
2/12
3. Ponggal and Tamil New Year 1/23/2013
A strong debate ensued among the participants as to whether Ponggal is a religious festival
or non-religious festival. Maraimalai Adigalar stood up and explained that Ponggal is a
non-religious festival. It is not mentioned anywhere in the Vedas, Puranas, Ithihaasas or
any other religious books. Since, the festival is not mentioned in any religious books, it is
therefore cannot be considered as a religious festival. On the other hand, it is sung in the
2,500 years old Tamil literature Purananooru.
Thanthai Periyar immediately accepted his explanation and declared that Ponggal is not a
religious festival but a festival for the Tamils. The other scholars immediately rallied
behind Thanthai Periyar and Maraimalai Adigalar6.
It is only after this convention; Ponggal started gaining prominence among the Tamils in
Tamilnadu and Malaya. The entire Tamil scholars who decided the Tamil New Year relied
on Thanthai Periyar to propagate it.
As a result of the above conventions coupled with declarations made thereafter and the
historical significance attached to Ponggal festival, the first day of Thai is considered as the
beginning of Tamil New Year and is celebrated as Ponggal Tamil New Year.
In Malaysia, Ponggal is celebrated by self-respect associations only after 1946. Prior to
that, Ponggal was celebrated by Tamils at their home within their family. In an interview
for the International Conference on Thai 1st Day the Tamil New Year, held in Kuala
6
Ka.Pa.Samy; International Conference on Thai 1st Day the Tamil New Year; Malaysian Movement for Tamil Culture;
Kuala Lumpur; 2001; pp166-167
3/12
4. Ponggal and Tamil New Year 1/23/2013
Lumpur on 6 January 2001, the former President of Malaysian Dravidian Association,
Ka.Pa.Samy, said that none of the self-respect associations in Malaya celebrated any
traditional celebrations of the Tamils before 1946. All the various self-respect associations
such as Tamil Sirthirutha Sangam, Tamilar Sangam, Suyamariyathai Iyakkam and,
Suyamariyathai Sangam merged to form All Malaya Dravidian Association (Agila Malaya
Dravidar Kazhagam) in 1946. This move was initiated by Ayaru from Ipoh, Pallikondan
from Banting, Velayutham, A.C. Suppiah, M. Maniarasu and Mu.Su. Maniam. All Malaya
Dravidian Association decided to celebrate 3 celebrations namely, Celebration for Thanthai
Periyar, Celebration for Thiruvalluvar and Bharathithaasan and Ponggal. It was also
resolved that Ponggal festival to be celebrated by all branches of All Malaya Dravidian
Association at their respective area. The Singapore Dravidian Association also accepted the
resolution and began to celebrate it. Events such as art and literature contest for children,
cultural shows and recital of Thirukural were included in the celebrations. This gave an
opportunity for the All Malaya Dravidian Association to explain the uniqueness and
specialties of Ponggal festival to the masses. They were also made aware that Ponggal
festival is a celebration without religious, sastra, caste and, astrological connotations. In
1952, Ponggal was celebrated in a grand scale at Batang Berjuntai, Kulim and Penang.
Today, Ponggal has been given a religious connotation. Astrology has also seeped in,
thereby stipulating auspicious time and bad time to celebrate it. The name Ponggal has
been changed to Magara Sangkraanthi. In Indian astrology, the word Magaram denotes
month and Sangkraanthi denotes Sun. Ponggal is celebrated at the time when the sun rises
in the East as stipulated in the astrology. For the last ten years, Radio Televisyen
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Malaysia’s (RTM) Indian radio station Minnal FM and Singapore’s radio and television
station for Indians, Oli 96.8 and Vasantham Central, respectively are seen announcing the
auspicious time to celebrate Ponggal. The auspicious time usually falls around noon.
Therefore, Hindus in Malaysia and Tamilnadu are seen celebrating Ponggal towards noon
instead of early morning when the sun rises. It is also celebrated in temples as a religious
festival with all religious rituals.
However, while the Catholic churches celebrate the same occasion as a cultural event, the
Malaysian Dravidian Association, Malaysian Movement for Tamil Culture, Malaysian
Tamil Neri Kazhagam and several other associations dedicated in promoting Tamil
language and culture and self-respect are celebrating it as Tamil New Year.
Despite all the conventions, decisions, declarations made thereafter and its implementations
by the Tamilnadu government, there is still confusion among Malaysian and Indian Tamils
on the Tamil New Year. The Tamil scholars, self-respecters, individuals and organizations
for promoting Tamil culture, art and literature have accepted Ponggal festival or 1 st Thai as
the Tamil New Year. On the other hand, religionists and certain media are advocating and
promoting the Chitirai New Year which falls in April as the Tamil New Year.
The month Chitirai is the first month in the Hindu calendar. The Hindu calendar is a period
of 60 years in cyclic form from Prabava to Atchaya. It was introduced in Tamilnadu by
Northern Indian king, King Salivahana in 78 A.D.
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According to the puranaa, Narathar had sexual intercourse with Lord Krishna. As a result
of the intercourse, 60 children were born. Each year of the 60 years cycle of Hindu
calendar is named after these children.
Tamil scholars despise Chitirai New Year, as the origin of 60 years is derogatory to Tamil
culture and heritage and it is not pertinent to wisdom and scientific thinking. Since the
years are in 60 years cyclic form, it makes it impossible to count the years. Further, the
names of the 60 years are not Tamil words to justify it as Tamil New Year.
The reason for the above confusion is due to two reasons. Firstly, although the decisions of
1921 convention were accepted and implemented by the Tamilnadu government, it did not
however, gazette it. This gave the religionist and higher caste Tamils an opportunity to
ignore the decisions. Secondly, religionist especially the Brahmins and higher caste Tamils
have always shown opposition to Periyar’s ideology. They were unable to contain Periyar’s
propaganda against caste and discriminating practices. As the print and electronic media is
owned or controlled by them, they actively promote Chitirai New Year as Tamil New Year
to show their protest against Periyar. Further, they know very well that the Tamilnadu
government will not be able to take action against them, as it did not gazette the decisions.
In Malaysia, private owned Tamil radio station, THR Raaga and Tamil daily, Malaysia
Nanban are promoting Ponggal festival as the Tamil New Year. Malaysia Nanban’s chief
editor, the late Athi Kumanan were seen giving detailed explanations in his editorial as to
why 1st Thai is the Tamil New Year. Government owned Tamil radio station; Minnal FM
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and Tamil daily, Tamil Nesan are in a state of confusion. They sometimes promote 1 st Thai
as Ponggal festival and sometimes as Tamil New Year and the other as Chitirai New Year
or Tamil New Year. Both Singapore’s print and electronic media are promoting Chitirai
New Year as Tamil New Year.
Tamils all over the world today are seen divided on the issue of Tamil New Year. To
overcome the confusion and to set things right, self-respecters and Tamil scholars
throughout the world have been urging the state government of Tamilnadu for many years
to make a formal announcement that 1st of Thai as the Tamil New Year. However, all
efforts were futile despite Tamilnadu is being ruled by Dravidian parties since 1967 with its
Chief Ministers and ministers being disciples of Thanthai Periyar (except for former Chief
Minister, Jayalalitha).
Re.Su. Muthiah, the President of Malaysian Dravidian Association, elaborated that, the
Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam came to power in 1967 with its president C.N. Annadurai as
the Chief Minister of Tamilnadu. After the demise of C.N. Annadurai in 1969, Tamilnadu
was ruled by either Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam or All India Anna Dravida Munnetra
Kazahagam. The problem here lies with Mu. Karunanidhi, who replaced C.N. Annadurai in
1969. He being the disciple of both Thanthai Periyar and C.N. Annadurai, an orator, Tamil
scholar and a self-respecter himself, has been reluctant to gazette the decisions of the 1921
convention. The main reason for his reluctance is his fear that his party, Dravida
Munnetra Kazhagam may lose the votes of the Brahmins and upper caste Tamils. This
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8. Ponggal and Tamil New Year 1/23/2013
clearly indicates that the Brahmins and the upper caste Tamils still dictate terms in the
Tamilnadu politics despite the ruling party being a Dravidian party.
Ironically, Mu. Karunanidhi wrote in Murasoli, a Tamil daily owned by him on 30 January
1995 the following:
“The government of Tamilnadu accepted that the Thiruvalluvar year starts on the
first day of Thai and implemented it in 1971. 1st Thai is not only a festival for
Tamils but it is also the beginning of Tamil New Year. We should come forward to
follow the Tamil year which is Thiruvalluvar year.”
The Malaysian Dravidian Association, Malaysian Movement for Tamil Culture, Tamil Neri
Kazhagam organized the International Conference on Thai 1st Day the Tamil New Year.
Tamil scholars, poets and academicians from all over the world gathered in Kuala Lumpur
on 6 January 2001 for this conference. A universal declaration that the first day of Thai
shall be the Tamil New Year was made in this conference and it was sent to the United
Nations. It was signed by the presidents of Malaysian Dravidian Association, Malaysian
Movement for Tamil Culture and Tamil Neri Kazhagam.
In the 1950’s, there was another confusion with regards to Ponggal festival. G.
Sarangapany and his friends conceived and decided on the idea of celebrating Tamilar
Thirunaal (Tamil Festival). They decided to celebrate it either on Ponggal or on the
following days. The main objective of this celebration is to unite all Tamils in Malaya
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under the banner of language, irrespective of their caste and religion. The first Tamilar
Thirunaal was celebrated in Perlis on January 1951. The following year it was celebrated in
Singapore. G. Sarangapany makes it a point to invite speakers, linguists and, poets with
self-respect and reformist ideas from Tamilnadu to propagate Thanthai Periyar’s
ideologies. As Ponggal celebration by self-respect associations, events such as art and
literature contest for children, cultural shows and, recital of Thirukural were included in the
celebrations.
According to Arivananthan, in the 1950’s, Ponggal greeting newsletters carrying poems
and stories by self-respecters from Tamilnadu were circulated in Malaya. Members
belonging to Dravidian associations in Malaya were widely circulating it locally. As G.
Sarangapany declared that Tamilar Thirunaal should be celebrated on Ponggal day, certain
section of the Tamils perceived that Tamilar Thirunaal and Ponggal as same7. Soon,
Tamils in Malaya divided into two groups with one group claiming Ponggal is Tamilar
Thirunaal and the other claiming that they are two different celebrations.
However, veteran journalist and former chief editor of Tamil Nesan, V. Vivekananthan
gave a totally different explanation on the events leading to the confusion. According to
him, G. Sarangapany who was responsible for spreading the Tamilar Thirunaal to Malaya
and Singapore wrote in Tamil Murasu on 13 January 1952, that the most suitable day to
celebrate Tamilar Tirunaal is on 1st Thai which is also Ponggal. It is a very special day.
However, in the later years, he started propagating that Ponggal is a religious festival and
7
M. Arivananthan; First Tamilvel G. Sarangapany Conference Souvenir Magazine: University Kebangsaan Malaysia;
Bangi; 2000; pp89-90
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10. Ponggal and Tamil New Year 1/23/2013
Tamilar Thirunaal is not. Therefore, they are two different festivals. Even in his home, his
family applies religious marks on the pot before cooking ponggal. He even went to the
extent of saying that Tamilar Thirunaal is a new festival altogether. The reason is, as for
many centuries the Hindus have been celebrating Ponggal as Magara Sangkraanthi and as
a religious festival. As a result, G. Sarangapany found it increasingly difficult to attract the
non-Hindus, especially the Chiristians and Muslims to accept Tamilar Thirunaal.
V. Vivekananthan even wrote an editorial condemning G. Sarangapany on the above. In
1960, V. Vivekananthan, together with Tamil Nesan’s K.S. Arun and Kanagasundram
wrote a lengthy article against G. Sarangapany saying that Ponggal is Tamilar Thirunaal.
Even R. Vetrivel of Munnetram, a Tamil daily started by G. Sarangapany, criticized him
severely on numerous occasions.
Despite all the criticisms, G. Sarangapany, went all out to propagate that Tamilar Thirunal
is not related to Ponggal in Tamil Murasu.
V. Vivekananthan admits that, Tamilar Thirunaal did receive a lot of support from the
youths. It did create a love for their mother-tongue and culture. Those who promote
Ponggal on the other hand were not as enthusiastic and dedicated as G. Sarangapany8.
As a result of the above split, the celebration of Tamilar Thirunaal slowly faded and in the
1990’s there were almost no celebration at all. However, after the First Tamilvel G.
8
V. Vivekananthan; International Conference on Thai 1st Day the Tamil New Year; Malaysian Movement for Tamil
Culture; Kuala Lumpur; 2001; pp191-195
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Sarangapany Conference organized by the History Department of University Kebangsaan
Malaysia in August 2000, G. Sarangapany’s supporters began to celebrate Tamilar
Thirunaal on Ponggal day on a large scale. However, to date they have neither agreed nor
refused to acknowledge Tamilar Thirunaal and Ponggal as same.
Conclusion
The community leaders, politicians, academicians, religionists and media of the Tamil
community must first take some effort to learn about their culture. They must first learn to
differentiate culture and religion. Tamil scholars have made ample research on the origins
of Ponggal and have proven that it is not a religious festival but a Tamil festival and also
the beginning of a new Tamil year. Those who oppose should conduct their own research,
and if they don’t agree, than they must produce evidence to support their claim.
Those who claim that Chitirai New Year as Tamil New Year, are well aware of the story
behind it. However, they choose to remain steadfast in their claim. In Malaysia, it has
become a norm to call the Indians and Tamils as Hindus. For example, during Deepavali it
is common to hear “Wishing all Indians a Happy Deepavali”. It should be, “Wishing all
Hindus a Happy Deepavali”. This mistake is not only done by wishers from other races
but also by Indians. Common sense will tell us that the Indians and Tamils belong to
various religions and ideologies. There are Tamils who are Christians, Muslims, Hindus,
Bahais, atheists and free thinkers. Therefore, Chitirai New Year which is linked to
Naarathar and Lord Krishna definitely cannot be a Tamil New Year.
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As it is, the Tamil community prefers foreign language, culture and lifestyle. Unless, the
above situation is rectified, the next generation will be pushed to further confusion and
eventually it will be without an identity.
Community leaders, politicians, academicians, religionists and the media have an
obligation to instill a sense of pride and self-respect into the future generation. They should
stop creating confusions and instead be more responsible in promoting the culture, tradition
and the Tamil language for the sake of future generation. As an old Red Indian saying goes,
“We did not inherit the present from our grandfather, but we borrowed it from our
children”.
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