KUALA LUMPUR – The Thai Ponggal celebrations for the Indian community this year have beem somewhat low-key following the reimplementation of the movement control order and proclamation of emergency.
The four-day celebration, which usually takes place in households before converging at temples to pray for blessings and wellbeing, will not take place due to the standard operating procedures set by the government.
Penang Hindu Association president P. Murugiah said while the government did the right thing due to the Covid-19 resurgence, Ponggal celebrations under the “new norm” would not be diminished either.
“Precautions are necessary as celebrations in the temple pose a higher risk for the entire community.
“However, this unprecedented circumstance gives us the opportunity for parents and children to bond closer within their households,” he told The Vibes today.
Noting that Ponggal is not a public holiday in the country, Murugiah said the MCO/emergency provides families a unique opportunity to bond together during the auspicious day.
“Parent will get the opportunity to teach their children what they learnt from their parents over the years. Those who had worked during Ponggal before this have the opportunity to celebrate it while working from home as well.”
He also expressed the hope that children would be able, in abiding with the SOPs, be able to celebrate with parents placed at old folks’ homes.
“Perhaps some of them can pick them up and do the celebrations just for the day. I am sure this would cheer them up.”
Sharing similar sentiments, Global Hindu Federation project director V. Uthayakumar said the new norm would not affect household celebrations, but rather enhance familial ties.
“Ponggal celebrations are mainly household-based. Temple celebrations are mainly focused within rural areas or estates, where they have been the norm for generations.
“There are no major changes except for the temple part. Celebrating at home with family members is just as fulfilling as well,” Uthayakumar said.
The Thai Ponggal celebrations usually begin on the eve with Bhogi, the day whereby old clothes and materials are discarded or burned to mark the beginning of a new life cycle.
Today, Thai Ponggal, or Surya Ponggal will see scores of families prepare sweet rice (ponggu sorru) consisting of rice, milk, and brown sugar.
The ingredients are boiled in decorated clay pots until they overflow, marking the start of celebrations as it signifies prosperity and fertility in view of the harvest festival the celebrations signify.
The ponggu sorru is then offered to the sun god, Lord Surya, to welcome the spring season.
The third day of Ponggal is called Maatu Ponggal, whereby bulls and cows are honoured and decorated for their role during the farming season.
The final day of Ponggal, known as Kaanum Ponggal, is usually dedicated to visiting friends and relatives. Also celebrated as Kanni (“Virgin”) Ponggal by the Tamil community, unmarried girls celebrate by praying for a successful matrimonial life. – The Vibes, January 14, 2021
