Renewal of strong links : President

President Mahinda Rajapaksa in his Thai Pongal message says that the Pongal festival marks a renewal of the strong links between humans and nature and the unity of people in day-to-day life.

The message says;

“Taking its name from the first day of the month of Thai, this festival is traditionally dedicated to the Sun God - Surya, for all the blessings for a successful harvest. The Pongal, the boiling over of milk and rice which is the highlight of the festival, is believed by Hindus as the commencement of new opportunities in life with the blessings of Surya. This is also considered the Surya Mangalyam when the first grains of the harvest are offered to Surya.

“This festival brings families together in a spirit of renewed affection and understanding and joins communities in paying tribute to the Sun God for a successful harvest and expectations of continued blessings for good harvests and success in the coming year.

The second day of this festival has the important tradition where the cattle used for ploughing, transport, provision of milk and fertilizer are treated with honour and respect.

“It is a symbol of devotion to deities, gratitude for blessings, and hopeful beginnings for the future. I wish all Hindus in Sri Lanka a Happy and Blessed Thai Pongal.”

The Pongal festival marks a renewal of the strong links between humans and nature and the unity of people in day-to-day life.