Thaip Ponggal

an auspicious start

to the year by the

Tamil Community

What is Thaip Ponggal?

• “Thai” is literally the name of the Tamil month. Ponggal refers to the sweet rice broth prepared at the break of dawn on this day.

• It is usually observed on 14 January or sometimes a day before or later.

• It also marks the beginning of the auspicious season for Hindus.

Who celebrates?Who celebrates?

• All Tamils observe this celebration, regardless of religion. The Hindus make an offering of the sweet broth to the Sun God. Otherwise this is considered an auspicious start of a new year.

Why celebrate?Why celebrate?

• The Tamils have an agrarian past and even in today’s context many Tamils in Tamil Nadu toil on their farms to make a living. This event is a reminder to the Tamils of their agrarian past.

What is the highlight?What is the highlight?

• In Singapore many families awaken early in the morning and prepare Ponggal. It is an opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate their identity and culture.

Thamizhar ThirunaalThamizhar Thirunaal

• Mr G Sarangapani, a pioneer who strived hard to establish Tamil as one of the official languages of this nation, declared this day as Thamizhar Thirunaal and to date this is observed by many organisations in Singapore.

Is this the Tamil New Year?Is this the Tamil New Year?

• No, this is just a harvest festival. The New Year falls on the 14 April. However this year the government of Tamil Nadu in India has declared this day as the official Tamil New Year.

Is there a celebration in Is there a celebration in Little India?Little India?

• The Little India Shopkeepers and Heritage Association (LISHA), the Hindu Endowments Board (HEB) jointly promote this festival with many other organisations. A 3-day fair is held at Campbell Lane in Little India every Year.

How do I greet?How do I greet?

• The greeting is “Ponggal Vaazh-thuk-kal”.

Happy Ponggal!