The much-awaited Pongal 2025 festival, organized by the Bhopal Tamil Sangam (BTS), was celebrated on January 19 at the Career College Auditorium, BHEL, Bhopal. More than 1,200 attendees, including members of the Tamil diaspora, government officials, art enthusiasts, and the wider Bhopal community, gathered to honor the harvest festival of Pongal, a time for Tamil communities worldwide to give thanks for a bountiful harvest and celebrate prosperity, unity, and cultural pride.
P. Raju, President of Bhopal Tamil Sangam, conveyed his heartfelt thanks to all who contributed to the success of the festival. He remarked, “This year’s Pongal celebration is a testament to the strength of our community, the enduring spirit of Tamil culture, and the power of cultural exchange. It is heartwarming to see how people from different backgrounds and cultures have come together to celebrate Tamil traditions.”
A. Swami Durai, General Secretary of the Bhopal Tamil Sangam, echoed his sentiments, adding, “Pongal is an occasion to appreciate life, nature, and the harvest, and to recognize the importance of unity in preserving our rich cultural heritage.”
As the sun set over the Bhopal cityscape, the Career College Auditorium came alive with energy, warmth, and celebration.
The Pongal 2025 festival featured a rich and diverse array of cultural performances that illuminated the colorful and vibrant traditions of Tamil Nadu.
One of the major highlights of the evening was the vibrant cultural performances by 20 renowned artists from the Tamil Nadu Art and Culture Department and 15 artists from the Union Ministry of Culture. These performances included classical and folk dances, live music, and much more, offering the audience a sensory experience unlike any other.
Some of the major attractions of the evening included traditional art forms such as Karagam, Thappattam, Kummi Kolattam, Kaliyattam, Karupattam, and various folk songs, all of which are synonymous with the grandeur and diversity of Tamil culture. These performances were met with resounding applause, making them the most unforgettable part of the festival.
A significant moment during the celebrations was the launch of the Pongal 2025 Souvenir, a special keepsake to commemorate the event.
The presence of talented child artists from Bhopal also added a special charm to the festival. Children and young artists performed various traditional Tamil dances and songs, showcasing their incredible talent and enthusiasm for preserving Tamil culture.
One of the most eagerly anticipated aspects of any Pongal celebration is the traditional feast. The Bhopal Tamil Sangam went above and beyond in ensuring that all attendees were treated to a truly authentic Tamil dining experience. Guests enjoyed a spread of traditional Tamil delicacies, with an emphasis on the special dishes associated with Pongal.
The Pongal 2025 Festival was made possible thanks to the support of several esteemed sponsors. Sunfeast, the Platinum Sponsor, played a pivotal role in the success of the event by supporting BTS in delivering a grand celebration.
The Gold Sponsors, MP Government and MP Tourism, provided essential backing, ensuring the event’s prominence in the region. The Silver Sponsors, including SZCC (South Zone Cultural Centre), Ministry of Culture, Government of India, and the Tamil Nadu Government, further strengthened the event’s scope by offering their expertise and resources.
Their generous sponsorship enabled BTS to bring together the best of Tamil culture, music, dance, cuisine, and artistry in an unforgettable festival.
In addition to the dignitaries, the event also saw the participation of several special guests, not only highlighted the importance of cultural events but also expressed their support for initiatives that promote community integration and cultural pride.
