Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday joined Pongal celebrations at the residence of Union Minister L. Murugan, taking part in time-honoured rituals that mark Tamil Nadu’s most important harvest festival. Dressed in a white sherwani, the Prime Minister performed a pooja, added rice to the boiling Pongal pot—a symbolic gesture signifying prosperity—and offered prayers as devotional chants were sung. He also fed cows as part of Maattu Pongal, the second day of the festival dedicated to honouring cattle, a cornerstone of agrarian life.
The visit underscored the cultural and agricultural roots of Pongal, a festival celebrated by Tamils across regions and religions as an expression of gratitude to nature, farmers, and the sun.
PM Modi Celebrates Pongal
Addressing those present, Modi reflected on the wider philosophy behind Pongal and its link with other harvest festivals celebrated across India. PM Modi said: “This festival shows the way to create a balance between nature, family, and society. At this time, there is enthusiasm for Lohri, Makar Sankranti, Magh Bihu, and other festivals in different parts of the country. I wish all the Tamil brothers and sisters living in India and around the world a very happy Pongal and all the festivals.”
#WATCH | Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi attends Pongal celebrations at the residence of Union Minister L Murugan.
(Source: DD News) pic.twitter.com/HGOKKuSNty
— ANI (@ANI) January 14, 2026
He noted that while the rituals may differ, the spirit of gratitude and renewal remains common across cultures.
Pongal’s Journey From Tamil Homes To the World
The Prime Minister described Pongal as a festival that has crossed borders, carried by the Tamil diaspora and embraced by admirers of Tamil culture worldwide.
“Today Pongal has become a global festival. The Tamil community and people who love Tamil culture across the world celebrate it with enthusiasm. I am also one of them. It is a privilege for me to celebrate this special festival with all of you. Pongal is a pleasant experience in our daily life. There is a feeling of gratitude towards the hard work of the food giver, the earth and the sun,” he said.
Modi stressed that the festival’s core message lies in acknowledging the interconnectedness of human effort and natural forces.
Tamil Heritage and the Idea of Ek Bharat
Recalling his engagements with Tamil history and culture over the past year, Modi spoke about visiting iconic sites and events that reinforced cultural unity. “Our Tamil culture is a shared heritage of the whole of India. Not only that, it is a shared heritage of all of humanity. The spirit of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat that I talk about is further strengthened by festivals like Pongal…”
He cited his prayers at the ancient Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple, participation in the Kashi Tamil Sangamam, and the inauguration of the Pamban Bridge in Rameswaram as moments that highlighted the depth of Tamil civilisation.
Farmers at the Heart of Civilisation
Highlighting the centrality of agriculture, Modi observed that harvest festivals are a common feature of almost every civilisation.
“Our farmers are strong partners in nation-building. The Atmanirbhar Bharat campaign is gaining great strength from their efforts. The central government is also continuously working with commitment to empower the farmers,” he said.
Also known as Uzhavar Thirunal—the festival of farmers—Pongal involves offering freshly cooked rice to the Pancha Bhootha, or the five elements of nature, and the sun. The ritual symbolises gratitude for the past harvest and hope for abundance in the coming year.
