Which of the following is worshipped by people during the festival of Pongal?

Correct option is D

(d) The Sun is worshipped by people during the festival of Pongal.

Pongal is a harvest festival celebrated primarily in Tamil Nadu, dedicated to Surya (the Sun God). It marks the thanksgiving to the Sun for ensuring a bountiful harvest. Pongal is observed in mid-January, coinciding with the Tamil month of Thai and the solar transition into the zodiac of Capricorn (Makara Sankranti).

Important Key Points:

1. The festival lasts four days: Bhogi, Thai Pongal, Mattu Pongal, and Kaanum Pongal.
2. Thai Pongal is the main day when offerings of rice, milk, and jaggery are made to the Sun God.
3. Mattu Pongal is dedicated to cattle, acknowledging their role in agriculture.
4. Pongal signifies prosperity and is a time for family reunions and cultural celebrations.
5. The traditional dish Pongal, made of newly harvested rice, is a significant part of the festival.
6. Represents gratitude toward nature and agricultural abundance.

Knowledge Booster:

• God Shiva: Worshipped during Maha Shivaratri and other occasions, unrelated to Pongal.
• The Moon: Celebrated during Karva Chauth and Sharad Purnima.
• Maa Durga: Worshipped during Navratri and Durga Puja.
• The Sun: Central to Pongal and other harvest festivals like Makara Sankranti across India.