Thiruvananthapuram: Marking Thai Pongal, the grand harvest festival of Tamil Nadu, the Kerala government has declared a local holiday on Thursday, January 15, in six districts bordering the neighbouring state.
The holiday will be observed in Idukki, Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Palakkad, and Wayanad—districts that share close cultural and geographical ties with Tamil Nadu. The declaration is in line with the Kerala government’s official holiday calendar.
In Tamil Nadu, Pongal is celebrated with four consecutive holidays from January 15 to 18, including Sunday. Thai Pongal is a traditional harvest festival, symbolising gratitude to the Sun God for a prosperous harvest season.
Pongal festivities span four key days—Bhogi Pongal, Thai Pongal, Mattu Pongal, and Kaanum Pongal. Celebrations begin with Bhogi Pongal on January 14, when old belongings are ceremonially discarded and burned, symbolising the shedding of the old and welcoming renewal and prosperity.
The holiday reflects the strong cultural bonds shared across the border and allows communities in these regions to participate fully in one of South India’s most vibrant and meaningful festivals.
