PM Modi calls Pongal a global celebration highlighting Tamil culture and farmer heritage

January 14, 2026 2:10 PM

PM Modi calls Pongal a global celebration highlighting Tamil culture and farmer heritage

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday addressed Pongal celebrations in the national capital, saying the harvest festival has now become a global occasion that showcases the richness of Tamil culture. Extending greetings in Tamil, the Prime Minister said Pongal is not just a festival but a reflection of gratitude towards farmers, nature and the Sun. “Today, Pongal has become a global festival,” he remarked, adding that Tamil communities across the world celebrate it with pride and enthus...

Pongal shining symbol of richness of Tamil traditions: PM Modi in special letter to TN

January 14, 2026 11:58 AM

Pongal shining symbol of richness of Tamil traditions: PM Modi in special letter to TN

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday extended Pongal greetings to the people of Tamil Nadu, calling it a "shining symbol" of the richness of Tamil traditions. Pongal, an important festival for Tamils across the globe, represents a thanksgiving to nature, the sun, livestock, and farmers. It is customarily observed as a family celebration that epitomises abundance, appreciation, and unity. In his special letter to the people of Tamil Nadu, PM Modi greeted the citizens with 'Vanakkam', and s...

President Murmu extends greetings on Lohri, Makar Sankranti, Pongal and Magh Bihu

January 13, 2026 9:16 AM

President Murmu extends greetings on Lohri, Makar Sankranti, Pongal and Magh Bihu

President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday extended greetings on the occasions of Lohri, Makar Sankranti, Pongal and Magh Bihu, saying these festivals reflect India’s rich agricultural traditions and the spirit of national unity.   In a post on X, the President said, “Heartfelt greetings to all Indians living in the country and abroad on the occasion of Lohri, Makar Sankranti, Pongal and Magh Bihu. These festivals are symbols of India’s rich agricultural traditions and national unity. On this ...

Tamil Nadu to launch Rs 3,000 Pongal gift scheme for over two crore ration card holders today

January 8, 2026 9:37 AM

Tamil Nadu to launch Rs 3,000 Pongal gift scheme for over two crore ration card holders today

As part of the Pongal celebrations, Tamil Nadu’s harvest festival, the state government is launching on Thursday a major welfare initiative providing a Pongal gift hamper along with Rs 3,000 in cash to more than 2.22 crore ration card holders, including eligible Sri Lankan Tamil families residing in the state. The scheme will be formally inaugurated by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin at a ration shop in the Alandur area of Nazarethpettai in Chennai. Following the launch, beneficiaries can begin co...

Amit Shah attends Pongal celebrations, offers prayer at major temples in Tamil Nadu

January 6, 2026 12:30 PM

Amit Shah attends Pongal celebrations, offers prayer at major temples in Tamil Nadu

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday offered prayers at two prominent temples in Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, and participated in Pongal festivities, seeking blessings for the well-being and prosperity of the nation. The Home Minister visited the revered Arulmigu Aranganatha Swamy Temple in Srirangam and the Arulmigu Jambukeswarar Temple at Thiruvanai Kovil, where he performed special prayers. In a post on X, Shah said he prayed for the welfare of all citizens and sought divine blessings to ...