“Pongal, the harvest festival of Tamil Nadu is one of the most widely celebrated festivals across the state. Since this stands as a testimony to offer our obeisance to the sun god and the farmers, Pongal is one of the widely anticipated festivals too. Back in my days, we used to celebrate it on an elaborate scale. I am still continuing it through the years because, we owe it to ourselves to inculcate these rich values and culture to the next generation as well. It is sad that the current generation is not understanding the significance of all our festivals but we should make an honest effort to imbibe the core values and take an active interest in the celebrations. One of the best things about the Pongal festival is the magarajyothi. We arrange all the fruits and the offerings inside a neat pot and place a ghee lamp inside and keep it partially closed. The lamp will stay lit as long as the ghee is available and the following day, we remove the items and offer it to cows. Magara Jyothi is also popularly celebrated as a festival to lord Ayyappa and not many continue in this tradition but I am one of the privileged few who came across this. Festivals to me are a way for us to know and understand our rich culture. Eons ago people have lived and formulated a day to commemorate each and every occasion. We should take it upon ourselves to educate and walk down the path of our ancestors. Wishing everyone a wonderful thai thirunal. May this new year, shine down prosperity, happiness and peace.”