‘Preserve the values behind Pongal celebrations’

Those days, we had open courtyards and it was a must to boil milk in mud pots and when it starts to flow out of the vessel, women come together and chant pongalo pongal and recite thai pirandhal vazhi pirakkum (let this bring about new opportunities). Now, pressure cookers have replaced mud pots and people don’t chant anything. I think the festival spirit is intact in villages even now. There are a lot of family reunions happening during this time. 

What I have observed is that the festival has lost its charm. Youngsters aren’t showing any interest in understanding the significance of Pongal and why it should be celebrated. It has become more like a holiday and spending time with friends. Only the elderly are following the traditional method of celebration. During my childhood, I celebrated this harvest festival with a lot of joy and fervour. It was a ritual to make five varieties of rice, but I don’t think anyone follows it now. 

I think the festival has lost its originality and has become a routine holiday for most. People living in cities aren’t aware of what’s happening in the agricultural sector. There is a major cultural shift and it’s sad to notice that today’s youngsters aren’t aware of the importance of Pongal. We need to preserve our tradition and culture or festivals will die a slow death. 

Pongal is the only festival where we get to thank the farmers who toil and it’s vital to teach children who a farmer is and why they are vital for our existence. The responsibility lies with adults — they should educate kids about the festival through stories and songs. Certain customs and rituals have changed over the years but I think the way of celebrating is not that important. As long as you understand the concept behind the festival, then it’s completely fine. Pongal festival is the best way to practise the act of gratitude.