On the final day of Pongal, people travel to see family members and friends. Elder members of the family are paid homage, with the younger members providing gifts of money. It is also one of the few times that rural people take off and head to the cities, dressed in their finery. Beaches were a favorite destination, with over 400,000 at Marina beach - one of many beaches lining the Bay of Bengal from Chennai down to Mahabalipuram. Over 100,000 stood hours in line to get into the zoo, others to the Snake Park, Children’s Park, and other sites. Judging from the festive atmosphere at a beach the night before and another beautiful day, I can imagine that it was a happy day for all.For more information on Pongal - its meaning, celebrations, customs, kolams, recipes and more, visit http://www.pongalfestival.org/
No comments:
Post a Comment