Winter · 17 January 2026
Kanni Pongal
கன்னிப் பொங்கல் · Fourth day of Pongal
Festival details
About
ॐ सूर्याय नमः
Kanni Pongal is a significant Sanatan observance centred on outing. Devotees keep vows, worship, and give charity to purify daily life.
Origin
Both scripture and folk memory root Kanni Pongal deeply. Tithi, katha, and the traditions of Tamil Nadu give the day its meaning.
Why it is celebrated
The day is kept because outing teaches duty, devotion, and balance. Families and communities express reverence together.
The katha
Puranic accounts linked to Kanni Pongal speak through outing of protecting dharma and protecting the devotee.
Stories & episodes
In Tamil Nadu and beyond, folk stories of Kanni Pongal are told across generations, keeping the festival alive.
Rituals & customs
Bathing and worship, mantra japa, fasting or fruit, lamp offerings, and traditional prasad linked to outing.
Where it is celebrated
Especially Tamil Nadu; also observed with devotion across India and in the diaspora.