Maatu Pongal, the third day of the Pongal festival, is a special occasion dedicated to honoring and showing gratitude to cattle.

Since cows and bulls play vital roles in agriculture, providing nourishing milk and assisting in ploughing fields, we offer prayers to bulls, cows, and other farm animals, acknowledging their significance in daily life.

It is a well-deserved day of rest for the cattle, where they are adorned with painted horns, metal caps, colorful beads, bells, and flower garlands.

In addition to rituals, a thrilling bull festival called Jallikattu takes place in certain regions, featuring bulls with money bundles tied to their horns. The festivities also include a community meal with freshly harvested grain, making Maatu Pongal a day of joyous celebration and gratitude across Tamil Nadu.