Festival Date

Pongal Festival Significance and Dates in 2025

Pongal Festival Celebration and Holidays in Tamil Nadu 2025: Pongal is a popular harvest festival celebrated in South India. It is also known as the ‘Festival of the Sun’ and is observed in the month of Thai (January-February). Pongal celebrations last for four days and each day has a different name and significance. The first day of Pongal is called Bhogi, the second day is Surya Pongal, the third day is Mattu Pongal and the fourth day is Kaanum Pongal.

Pongal is celebrated to thank the Sun God – Surya – for bestowing the bountiful harvest. Farmers offer prayers and prepare special dishes on this occasion. On Surya Pongal, people wake up early and take a holy bath. They wear new clothes and offer prayers to the Sun God, seeking his blessings. A special dish called ‘Pongal’ is prepared on this day using rice, milk, and sugar. This dish is offered to the Sun God as part of the puja ritual.

The third day of Pongal is known as Mattu Pongal, which is dedicated to cattle. Cattle are decorated with bells and flowers and are given a special treat of rice, jaggery, and molasses. This day is also marked by games and sports such as bullock cart races and cockfights.

The fourth day of Pongal is known as Kaanum Pongal or Thiruvalluvar Day. On this day, people visit their relatives and friends to exchange gifts and enjoy feasts. Kaanum Pongal is also a time for thanksgiving when people express their gratitude for all the good things in. During Pongal, homes are decorated with kolams (rangoli), fresh flowers, and banana leaves. Families dress up in new clothes and gather together to enjoy feasts and special sweets. They also exchange gifts and visit temples to offer prayers. [Read more]

Pongal Holiday Dates in Tamil Nadu 2025

As per the notification issued by the Tamil Nadu Government on holidays during the year 2025, the holiday list is given in the month of January 2025;

• 01 January 2025 Monday New Year’s Day
• 15 January 2025 Monday Pongal
• 16 January 2025 Tuesday Thiruvalluvar Day
• 17 January 2025 Wednesday Uzhavar Thirunal
• 26 January 2025 Friday Republic Day

Pongal Holiday Dates, History in Andhra Pradesh 2025

The Pongal holidays in Andhra Pradesh are set to begin on January 14th and continue until January 18th. The festival is celebrated to mark the start of the harvest season and is one of the most important festivals in the state. On Pongal day, families gather together to offer prayers and thanksgiving to the sun god, Surya. They also exchange gifts and enjoy traditional foods.

Pongal Holiday dates, History in Puducherry, Kerala and Odisha 2025

Pongal is a four-day harvest festival celebrated in the Indian states of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Kerala. It is also celebrated in the Union Territory of Puducherry. The festival is celebrated from the last day of the Tamil month of Margazhi to the third day of the month of Thai. Pongal 2025 will be celebrated from January 14 to January 17.

The first day of Pongal is Bhogi. On this day, people clean their houses and decorate them with fresh flowers. They also burn old clothes and belongings to signify letting go of the past and starting anew. The second day is Surya Pongal, which is dedicated to the sun god. People offer prayers to the sun god and prepare special dishes like sweet pongal (a rice pudding made with jaggery, milk, and ghee) and ven pongal (a savory dish made with rice, moong dal, ginger, pepper, and cumin).

The third day is Mattu Pongal, which is dedicated to cattle. Cattle are decorated with bells and garlands and given a special bath. This day is also considered to be a Thanksgiving day for all the animals that help us in our daily lives. The fourth and final day is Kaanum Pongal, which is a day for family gatherings and feasting. Pongal is one of the most important festivals in South India. It is a time for family, friends, and community to come together and celebrate the harvest season.

Train Ticket Booking Start Date for Pongal 2025

Commencement of Train Ticket Bookings for Pongal 2025: Pongal, a highly revered festival in South India, is set to be celebrated on January 15, 2023. Recognizing the expected increase in passengers traveling to their hometowns for the festivities, the Indian Railways’ IRCTC has taken proactive steps by initiating train ticket bookings. This initiative aims to ensure convenience and comfort for passengers during their Pongal journeys.

Ticket bookings for travel on January 10 are now open, allowing travelers to secure their seats in advance. Similarly, bookings for January 11 will commence tomorrow (September 13). Passengers planning to travel on January 13 will be able to book their tickets starting from September 15. Furthermore, ticket bookings for travel on January 14, 15, and 16 will commence on September 17.

To find the exact date for advance booking in IRCTC trains, we have provided a hyperlink – Click here.

How is Pongal, Bhogi, and Makar Sankranti celebrated?

Pongal is celebrated with the preparation of a special sweet dish known as ‘pongal’. Bhogi is celebrated by burning old items and replacing them with new ones. Makar Sankranti is celebrated with kite flying and bonfires.

When is Pongal, Bhogi, and Makar Sankranti celebrated?

Pongal, Bhogi, and Makar Sankranti are celebrated in January or February every year. Pongal is usually celebrated on the 14th of January, Bhogi is celebrated the day before, and Makar Sankranti is celebrated on the day after.

What is Pongal, Bhogi, and Makar Sankranti?

Pongal, Bhogi, and Makar Sankranti are traditional Hindu festivals celebrated in India. Pongal is a crop festival which marks the start of the harvest season. Bhogi is a festival of renewal and joy and is celebrated by burning old items and replacing them with new ones. Makar Sankranti is a solar event celebrated with kite flying and bonfires.

Jamat Ul-Vida 2025: Date, History, Significance, Celebration

Jamat-Ul-Vida, also referred to as Jumu’ah-tul-Wida, holds great reverence among the global Muslim community. Occurring on the final Friday of the sacred month of Ramadan, it exudes profound spiritual and societal meaning. This hallowed occasion is reserved for introspection, devout supplication, and the sincere quest for absolution from Allah. Within the confines of this composition, we shall delve into the profound import of Jamat-Ul-Vida and venture into the diverse rituals and traditions intertwined with this propitious day.

Jamat-Ul-Vida 2025 Date in India: 28th March Friday

Jamat-Ul-Vida 2025 Overview

Jamat-Ul-Vida 2025 India Calendar

Celebrate Jamat-Ul-Vida 2025 with this special India Calendar; featuring a unique design for each month and special cultural highlights.

When is Jamat-Ul-Vida 2025?

The last Friday in the holy month of Ramadan, just before the joyous celebration of Eid-ul-Fitr, is known as Jamat-Ul-Vida. This special day holds significant importance for Muslims around the world, as it marks the final congregational prayer of Ramadan. It is a time for reflection, gratitude, and seeking forgiveness, as believers gather in mosques and open spaces to offer prayers and listen to sermons. The atmosphere is filled with a sense of anticipation and devotion, as individuals come together to seek blessings and pray for a peaceful and prosperous future.

Significance of Jamat-Ul-Vida

Jamat-Ul-Vida holds a special place in the hearts of Muslims as it marks the conclusion of Ramadan, the month of fasting and spiritual growth. It is believed that on this day, Allah listens to the prayers of His followers and grants them forgiveness for their sins. Muslims gather in mosques to offer congregational prayers and seek blessings for themselves and their loved ones.

This day also serves as a reminder of the importance of unity and brotherhood within the Muslim community. It is an occasion for Muslims to come together, put aside their differences, and strengthen their bonds with one another. The spirit of generosity and compassion that is fostered during Ramadan is carried forward on Jamat-Ul-Vida, as Muslims engage in acts of charity and kindness towards others.

Customs and Practices of Jamat-Ul-Vida

1. Congregational Prayers: One of the central customs of Jamat-Ul-Vida is attending the Jumu’ah (Friday) prayer in congregation. Muslims gather in mosques to offer this special prayer, which consists of a sermon followed by two units of prayer. The sermon delivered by the imam often focuses on the significance of the day and encourages believers to reflect on their actions during Ramadan.

2. Recitation of the Holy Quran: On Jamat-Ul-Vida, Muslims devote time to reciting and reflecting upon the verses of the Holy Quran. Many individuals choose to recite the entire Quran during Ramadan, and Jamat-Ul-Vida provides an opportunity to complete this spiritual journey. It is believed that the rewards for reciting the Quran are multiplied during this blessed month, making it an ideal time for Muslims to engage in this act of devotion.

3. Seeking Forgiveness: Muslims seek forgiveness from Allah on Jamat-Ul-Vida, acknowledging their shortcomings and repenting for their sins. This act of seeking forgiveness is seen as a means of purifying the soul and starting anew. It is common for Muslims to engage in personal reflection and introspection on this day, evaluating their actions and striving to become better individuals.

4. Acts of Charity: Charitable acts hold great significance during Ramadan, and Jamat-Ul-Vida is no exception. Muslims are encouraged to give generously to those in need, whether through monetary donations or by providing food and other essentials. This act of charity not only benefits the recipients but also brings immense spiritual rewards to the giver.

The Spirit of Jamat-Ul-Vida

Jamat-Ul-Vida embodies the essence of Ramadan, encapsulating the values of faith, compassion, and self-reflection. It serves as a reminder for Muslims to carry forward the lessons learned during the holy month and apply them in their daily lives. The day encourages believers to strengthen their relationship with Allah, seek forgiveness, and extend kindness towards others.

The spirit of Jamat-Ul-Vida extends beyond religious boundaries, fostering a sense of unity and understanding among people of different faiths. It is a time when Muslims invite their non-Muslim friends and neighbors to join them in prayer and share in the joyous atmosphere. This interfaith dialogue promotes harmony and mutual respect, contributing to a more inclusive society.

Jamat Ul-Vida 2025 Best Wishes

• As Ramadan departs from us yet again, we pray to see it again next year. I hope our prayers, fasts and all the good deeds are accepted and rewarded generously. I pray all our sins are forgiven. Jamat-ul-Vida Mubarak.
• Ya Allah we have committed countless sins, But your mercy is limitless. Please Forgive Us, You are the greatest forgive. You love to forgive. Please Forgive all of us for our sins in the past, present and the future.
• On this holy day, let us renew our commitment to Allah and seek His forgiveness with sincere hearts. We pray that Allah would bless us and lead us in the right direction.
• Let us rejoice in the blessings of Allah and thank Him for the gift of Ramadan. May this day bring us closer to Him and strengthen our faith. Happy Jamat ul-Vida!
• Ramadan is about to end soon. Today we pray to see it again next year. I hope all our prayers, fasts and good deeds are accepted and rewarded generously. I pray that all our sins are forgiven. Jamat-ul-Vida Mubarak to you and your entire family.

Chaiti Chhath Puja 2025 Date, Time, History and Significance

Chhath Puja, a momentous Hindu celebration, reverberates with fervor and unwavering reverence in the northern domains of India, most notably in Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh. This quadrennial festivity carries a profound sense of devotion as it pays homage to the majestic Sun God, known as Surya Devta. Occurring on the sixth day following Diwali, during the sacred month of Kartik in the Hindu calendar, Chhath Puja serves as a poignant occasion for devotees to extend their heartfelt appreciation to the Sun God for bestowing sustenance upon Earth and to implore for their own prosperity and well-being.

Chhath Puja 2025 Date in India: 28th October, Tuesday

Chhath Puja 2025 Overview

Chhath Puja 2025 India Calendar

Celebrate Chhath Puja 2025 with this special India Calendar; featuring a unique design for each month and special cultural highlights.

When is Chhath Puja 2025?

Chhath Puja 2025 Time in Bihar

Thursday, October 28, 2025, marks the auspicious occasion of Chhath Puja. On this special day, devotees will witness the glorious sunrise at precisely 06:12 AM, followed by the breathtaking sunset at 05:59 PM. The Shashthi Tithi, which signifies the sixth day of the lunar month, commences at 12:41 AM on Nov 07, 2025, and concludes at 12:34 AM on Oct 31, 2025.

Historical and Mythological Significance

Chhath Puja has its roots in ancient Hindu scriptures and mythology. It is believed that Draupadi, the wife of the Pandavas, performed this ritual to seek the blessings of the Sun God for the well-being of her family. The festival also finds mention in the Rigveda, one of the oldest texts in Hinduism. According to mythology, Lord Rama and his wife Sita observed Chhath Puja after returning to Ayodhya from their exile.

Rituals and Traditions of Chhath Puja

Chhath Puja involves a series of rituals that are meticulously followed by devotees. The preparations for the festival start well in advance, with devotees observing a strict vegetarian diet and maintaining purity in their thoughts and actions. The first day of Chhath Puja is known as Nahay Khay, where devotees take a holy bath in rivers or other water bodies before preparing prasad (offerings) for the Sun God.

The second day is called Kharna, during which devotees observe a fast throughout the day. In the evening, they break their fast after offering kheer (sweet rice pudding) and fruits to the Sun God. The third day, known as Sandhya Arghya, is the most important day of Chhath Puja. Devotees gather at the banks of rivers or ponds before sunrise and offer prayers to the rising sun. They perform various rituals, including standing in water for long durations, offering prayers, and singing devotional songs.

The final day of Chhath Puja is called Usha Arghya, which takes place on the following morning. Devotees again gather at the riverbanks to offer prayers to the setting sun. The festival concludes with the breaking of the fast by consuming prasad and distributing it among family and friends.

Significance and Benefits of Chhath Puja

Chhath Puja holds immense significance for devotees, both spiritually and scientifically. The rituals performed during this festival are believed to purify the mind, body, and soul. The practice of standing in water during sunrise and sunset is said to have therapeutic benefits, as it helps in absorbing Vitamin D from the early morning and evening sun rays.

Chhath Puja is also considered a way to express gratitude towards nature and the environment. The festival promotes environmental conservation by encouraging devotees to clean the riverbanks and maintain cleanliness during the rituals. It is a time when people come together as a community, irrespective of caste, creed, or social status, to celebrate and strengthen their bond with nature.

Celebrations and Festivities of Chhath Puja

Chhath Puja is not just a religious festival but also a time for joyous celebrations. The atmosphere during this period is filled with devotion, music, and dance. Devotees dress in traditional attire and decorate their homes with flowers and colorful rangolis (artistic designs made with colored powders). The sound of devotional songs and hymns fills the air as people come together to sing and dance in praise of the Sun God.

The festival also witnesses the participation of various cultural groups and organizations, who organize processions and cultural programs to showcase the rich heritage and traditions associated with Chhath Puja. The grandeur of the celebrations attracts tourists from all over the world, who come to witness this unique festival and experience the vibrant culture of India.