Pongal’s astronomical significance is that it marks the auspicious beginning of Uthrayana, the Sun's movement northward for a six month period. All important events are scheduled during this season. The festival celebrates leaving behind old way of doing things, be it relationships, money matters or health habits.
The below photographs are of Uthrayana Puniyakalam performed at Thamarai Kulam, Tiruvannamalai on January 14, 2017 in observance of the auspicious beginning of Uthrayana.