Answer:

The term 'Pongal' is derived from the Tamil literature which means 'to boil'. Pongal was referred as “Indra Vizha” in the ancient Chola seaport of Poompuhaar which is considered the birthplace of the Multi-day festival. It is celebrated to thank the Sun God and Lord Indra for helping farmers in getting better-yielding crops.

Pongal festival is a four-day celebration affair. Each day marked by different festivities- First day is called the Bhogi festival; Second day is called Thai Pongal; the Third day is called Mattu Pongal; the Fourth day is called Kaanum Pongal.

The history of the festival can be traced back to the Sangam Age and considered as the ‘Dravidian Harvest festival. During this festive season ,unmarried girls prayed for agricultural prosperity of the country and for this purpose, they observed penance during the Tamil month of Margazhi. They abstained from the consumption of milk and milk products, didn't oil their hair throughout the month. The use of harsh words is strictly refrained by them. Ceremonial bath in the early morning as part of the ritual of the penance.