Offerings of thanks to cows during Maatu Pongal

 
                                (Photo courtesy of LISHA)


The third day, “Maatu Pongal”, is meant to offer thanks to the cows and buffaloes, animals sacred in Hinduism. Cows or cattle are revered as traditionally they are used to plough the fields which yield bountiful harvest. You can see on this day, the cows are bathed, their horns polished and their bodies painted with bright colours. Multi-coloured beads, tinkling bells, sheaves of corn and flower garlands are tied around the animals’ necks.


The fourth day is known as “Kaanum Pongal”, when colourful rice is fed to the crows and birds. The feeding of the birds is usually carried out by sisters for the welfare of their brothers. This practice dates back to the old days when young men were required to go and work in the fields to feed to the family.

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