Hope to make a sequence of postings elaborating on the various functions and observances of the 4-day Pongal Festival, which in fact ends today with what is known as Thiruvalluvar Day or Kanum Pongal.
But to begin with below are photographs of some of the preparations in town previous to the Pongal celebrations.
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| A welcome sight during all festivities at Tiruvannamalai, is Rukku |
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| Particularly popular at this time of Sunny Celebrations is the purchase of "special protection" for the outside of front doors to ward off negativity |
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| Market in town that makes and sells flower garlands |
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| As its customary during Pongal to give new clothes to friends and family, clothes stalls are abundant on the Temple perimeter streets |
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| Hardware stores doing a roaring business selling paint and accoutrements for Maatu Pongal, and the rural celebration of the cow and bullock |
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| Huge selection of coloured kolam powders for householders to use on Pongal displays at their front gate |
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| Originally would only see sugarcane cradles during the Deepam Festival. Nowadays the custom of carrying one's child around the Temple is becoming commonplace during other Festivals |
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| Shops throughout town making special Pongal discounts |
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| Pongal a peak-time shopping for clothes, electrical items and household appliances |
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| Yearly shop decorations are getting more elaborate!!! |
Praying that Rukku the elephant will be able to go on camp this year. Read that because of the death of the Chief Minister, the camp is uncertain. Any update Meenakshi?
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