pongal - the harvest festival

not many non-indians in singapore know much about this festival celebrated by the indian community. most of us know about deepavali and thaipusam and some may know about thimithi.

pongal is celebrated in january each year. the exact day is 14 january. this festival has its origin in south india where farming is a major activity. pongal is the celebration of a good harvest. in singapore, pongal is also celebrated as the commencement of the auspicious tamil month of thai.

during pongal, there is a lively street bazaar (complete with cows!) and nightly cultural performances along campbell lane. this year, the cattle parade will be held on 16 january at 6.30 p.m.

pongal is celebrated over four days. however, over at campbell lane, the festival will last from 6 january to 16 january. from the 8 to the 13, there will be a cultural performance by a different group each night, from 7.30 p.m. to 9.30 p.m. on 14 january, there is a talentime and variety show.