Chennai: Bhogi Pandigai 2026, the first day of the four-day Pongal festival, is being celebrated across South India on Tuesday, 13 January, with bonfires, family gatherings and traditional rituals.
Observed in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, Bhogi precedes Makar Sankranti and ushers in the harvest season.
In 2026, Bhogi Pandigai falls on 13 January, with the Makar Sankranti moment - when the Sun enters Capricorn - occurring at around 3:13 PM on 14 January. The festival continues with Thai Pongal (14 January), Mattu Pongal (15 January) and Kaanum Pongal (16 January), each with its own customs and celebrations.
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Fresh beginnings and Bhogi bonfire ritual
Bhogi is a day dedicated to new beginnings, where people discard old habits and belongings that no longer serve them. Homes and neighbourhoods are thoroughly cleaned in preparation for the celebrations.
A central feature of the day is the Bhogi Mantalu, or bonfire ritual. Families gather early in the morning to light fires and burn old clothes, wooden items and other discarded possessions. The ritual symbolises letting go of past burdens and inviting positivity and energy for the year ahead. Local communities often burst crackers and sing traditional songs around the bonfire, which is believed to bring cleansing and protection.
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Regional customs and family traditions
Across South India, Bhogi is celebrated with regional variations:
In Telugu households, children are showered with fruits, sugarcane, jaggery and flower petals in the Bhogi Pallu ritual.
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Homes are decorated with colourful rangoli designs and cleaned thoroughly before sunrise.
Prayers are offered to Surya (Sun God) and Agni (fire) for light, warmth and a good harvest.