Bhogi marks the first day of the Pongal festival, celebrated to honor Lord Indra and thank the Sun God for a good harvest. Astrologically, it is observed as the transition of the Sun from Sagittarius to Capricorn (Makara Sankranti).
Bhogi Pandigai marks fresh beginnings on the harvest calendar. It honors Agni, the fire god, who purifies the home and mind by burning away old, worn-out belongings. The ritual strengthens family bonds as households clean, decorate, and share sweets. Astrologically, it aligns with Thai month and signals a shift toward brighter days. Communities glow with lamps, rangoli, and exchanges of well-wishes. 🔥🏵️
| Title | Corresponding values |
|---|---|
| Tithi | Bhogi (Prathama) |
| Nakshatra | Pushya (approx) |
| Sunrise | 07:05 AM IST |
| Sunset | 05:45 PM IST |
| Auspicious Timing | 06:50–08:10 IST; 17:00–18:50 IST |
| Date | 13 January 2026 |
Bhogi rituals are simple and family-centered. Communities start with thorough cleaning and fresh kolam drawing at every entrance. Families light lamps to welcome auspicious energy and place mango leaves on doorways. A central ritual is the bhogi bonfire, where old items go up in smoke to symbolize letting go. Fresh Pongal is cooked with new rice and milk, then shared with relatives and neighbors. People visit temples, sing devotional songs, and extend help to those in need. 🪔🌾
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Do burn only dry, clean wood and plant-based waste; don’t burn plastics, rubber, tires, batteries, or hazardous chemicals. Do keep the bonfire in an open space away from buildings, trees, and electrical wires; don’t place it near thatched roofs or other flammable materials. Do have water, sand, or a bucket and a fire extinguisher nearby; supervise children and keep pets at a safe distance; don’t leave the fire unattended. Do follow local fire safety rules and any Bhogi-related restrictions; don’t ignore bans or guidelines. Do dispose of ash responsibly (e.g., compost where appropriate); don’t dump ash into water bodies or litter the area. Do avoid accelerants like petrol or kerosene and keep the fire small to minimize smoke and pollution; don’t create a large, smoky blaze. Do observe traditional rituals with safety (cleaning, prayers, eco-friendly decorations); don’t engage in risky practices or burn prohibited items.
Bhogi Pandigai is a day of cleansing and renewal. Remedies you can follow in 2026 include: (1) perform a thorough home cleaning and discard or donate old items to symbolize letting go of the past; (2) light the Bhogi fire at dawn after a short puja to Agni and Surya to purify the home and invite new positive energy; (3) draw a kolam at the entrance and keep the house clutter-free to attract auspicious forces; (4) offer a simple puja and distribute prasadam such as Pongal rice, jaggery, coconut, banana, and sesame seeds to family and neighbors; (5) give away old clothes or belongings to charity (danam); (6) plant saplings or seeds as a sign of growth and new beginnings. Benefits believed from observing Bhogi Pandigai 2026 include: removal of negative energies and past burdens; renewal of the home and mind; onset of prosperity, health, and harmony for the year; and a positive, fresh start aligned with the Tamil harvest season. Note: The date of Bhogi Pandigai 2026 varies by region; please confirm with your local Tamil calendar.