The day is dedicated to Lord Indra, the God of rain, and marks new beginnings. People discard old and unused items from their homes, light bonfires, and clean their surroundings, welcoming positivity and prosperity.
Bhogi Pongal 2026: Date and Timings
The festival is celebrated every year on January 13 and falls on the last day of the Margasirsa month of the Hindu calendar. It is the day before Makar Sankranti, celebrated widely in the Indian states of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra.
According to Drik Panchang, Bhogi Sankranti moment is at 3:13 pm on January 14.
Bhogi Pongal 2026: Rituals
Homes are decorated with marigold flowers, mango leaves, and new items.
According to tradition, women make flower patterns called ‘Kolam’ using a paste of fresh rice flour and red colour. Pumpkin flowers are also placed in these designs. Fresh cow dung cakes are placed in the middle of these patterns, and clay lamps are lit on them.
Many families also display Bommala Koluvu, which are arrangements of dolls in several tiers. Sweets are cooked in large amounts on this day and shared with family, friends, and neighbours. Food is prepared using fresh rice, sugarcane, and turmeric.
Farmers worship their ploughs and other farming tools on this day. Before the first harvest of paddy, these tools are smeared with kumkum (vermillion) and sandalwood paste and offered to the Sun God and Mother Earth.
Bhogi Pongal 2026: Cultural Significance
Young children, usually 3 to 6 years old, are showered with a fruit called Regi Pallu, also known as Ber. Soaked black gram (Senagalu), flower petals, sugarcane pieces, jaggery, and coins are also showered on them.
This ritual is believed to protect children from the evil eye and bless them with health, prosperity, and long life. In addition to this, Ariselu Adugulu is also organized for kids, which is celebrated to mark the occasion when the kid learns to take their first step.
