Thaipongal celebration 2023

It is a celebration to thank the Sun, Mother Nature and the various farm animals that help to contribute to a bountiful harvest. It is celebrated over four days – Bhogi Pongal, Surya Pongal,
Maatu Pongal and Kaanum Pongal. For the 2nd consecutive year, we, the students of Faculty of Medicine, University of Ruhuna celebrated the Thaipongal on 22nd of January 2023 in the lobby of the faculty auditorium. The event was graced by the Vice Chancellor Senior Professor. Sujeewa Amarasena , the Dean Prof. Vasantha Devasiri, Academic staffs, Non-academic staffs and students of the Faculty of Medicine. A fresh pot of rice was cooked and when the milk began to boil, everyone started hailing ‘Pongalo pongal ‘ happily spreading the blessings of the God Sun. Colourful patterns
called “Kolam” made by the students added glamour to the event. As per the ritual, we prayed the sun and Pooja was performed by the chief Priest of the Murugan temple, Kaluwella , placing the offerings to Lord Ganesha. Then the bhajnas were sung giving a soothing ending to the main event. Pongal, wada, aval and chickpeas were served for everyone who participated. Thaipongal is not only about gathering and eating Pongal, its about the relationship that we build up when we celebrate festivals together and also the gratefulness towards sun and animals that help in farming.