When is Pongal 2026? is one of the most searched questions as people across Tamil Nadu and other parts of South India prepare for this important harvest festival. There is often confusion every year about whether Pongal falls on January 13 or January 14, especially because Bhogi and Sankranti dates vary slightly by region and calendar system. Here’s a clear, easy-to-understand guide with the correct Pongal 2026 date, full festival calendar, auspicious timings, and traditional rituals.
Also Read: Mahashivratri 2026 Date and Pujan Vidhi: Know the Auspicious Day, Rituals, and Significance
When is Pongal 2026? Here’s the Correct Date
To clear the confusion once and for all, Pongal in 2026 will be celebrated on Wednesday, January 14.
The festival follows the Tamil solar calendar and is observed when the Sun enters the Makara Rasi (Capricorn). This solar transition determines the main Pongal day, which usually falls on January 14 each year.
So, if you’re wondering when is Pongal 2026, the answer is January 14, 2026, not January 13.
Pongal 2026 Full Festival Calendar
Pongal is a four-day festival, and each day has its own cultural and religious significance. Below is the complete Pongal 2026 calendar:
- Bhogi Pongal – Tuesday, January 13, 2026
- Thai Pongal (Main Pongal Day) – Wednesday, January 14, 2026
- Mattu Pongal – Thursday, January 15, 2026
- Kaanum Pongal – Friday, January 16, 2026
This sequence often leads to confusion, which is why many people search when is Pongal 2026 every year.
Pongal 2026 Auspicious Time (Punya Kaalam)
The Punya Kaalam, or auspicious time, is considered the best period to prepare and offer Pongal to the Sun God.
- Punya Kaalam (Estimated):
7:30 AM to 9:30 AM on January 14, 2026
During this time, families traditionally cook Sakkarai Pongal or Ven Pongal outdoors, allowing the pot to overflow — a symbol of prosperity, abundance, and happiness.
Exact timings may vary slightly by location, so local panchangam references are recommended.
Why Pongal is Celebrated
Pongal is primarily a harvest festival, thanking Surya (Sun God) for agricultural abundance. It marks the beginning of the Tamil month Thai, which is considered extremely auspicious.
The word “Pongal” means “to boil over”, symbolizing wealth, good fortune, and positivity flowing into homes.
This spiritual and cultural importance is why questions like when is Pongal 2026 gain massive attention every January.
Rituals and Traditions of Pongal
Each day of Pongal has unique rituals:
Bhogi Pongal (January 13, 2026)
- Old and unused items are discarded
- Bonfires are lit to signify new beginnings
- Homes are cleaned and decorated
Thai Pongal (January 14, 2026)
- Pongal dish is prepared facing the Sun
- Sugarcane, turmeric, rice, and milk are offered
- Kolams are drawn at entrances
- Family prayers and blessings are performed
Mattu Pongal (January 15, 2026)
- Cattle are worshipped for their role in farming
- Cows are decorated with bells and garlands
- Traditional village celebrations take place
Kaanum Pongal (January 16, 2026)
- Family outings and picnics
- Visiting relatives and friends
- Cultural programs and folk dances
Is Pongal a Public Holiday in 2026?
Yes. Pongal is a public holiday in Tamil Nadu and is also observed in Puducherry and parts of South India. Many offices, schools, and institutions remain closed during the festival period.
January 13 or 14: Why the Confusion Happens
The confusion around when is Pongal 2026 arises because:
- Bhogi falls on January 13
- Pongal follows the solar calendar, not the lunar one
- Sankranti timing varies slightly each year
- However, Thai Pongal is firmly on January 14 in 2026.
Final Word
If you were wondering when is Pongal 2026, now you have the complete and correct answer. Pongal begins with Bhogi on January 13, but the main Pongal celebration is on January 14, 2026, followed by Mattu Pongal and Kaanum Pongal.
As families prepare to welcome prosperity, positivity, and new beginnings, Pongal 2026 promises joy, tradition, and togetherness.