South India, the four-day Pongal festival begins with Bhogi Know, Significance .

Bhogi 2026: In South India, the four-day Pongal festival begins with Bhogi. It is celebrated on the last day of the Tamil month of Margazhi. The main purpose of Bhogi is to discard old and unwanted things and welcome a new beginning. Around the time of Makar Sankranti, when the sun moves towards the north, people gather to celebrate. On this auspicious occasion, homes are cleaned, and people celebrate the festival with renewed energy. This year, Bhogi Pandigai will be observed on 13th January 2026.

Bhogi 2026: Date And Time

This year, Bhogi or Bhogi Pandigai will be observed on 13th January 2026, Tuesday.

The Bhogi Sankranti moment is at 03:13 PM on 14th January 2026, Wednesday.

Bhogi 2026: Significance

Bhogi is one of the most significant festivals in the Hindu calendar, where the god of rain and clouds, Lord Indra, is worshipped. The farmers worship him and thank him for the good harvest. According to them, his blessings bring happiness, prosperity, and wealth into homes. Because of this, Bhogi is also lovingly called 'Indran'.

The day is known by different names in different regions of the country. It is known by the name 'Bhogi Pandigai' in the South, whereas in Punjab and North India, it is celebrated with fervour by observing 'Lohri'. In Assam, the festival is known by the names 'Maghi Bihu' or 'Bhogali Bihu'. Although this day has different names, the significance of celebrating this day remains the same, i.e. to thank God for harvesting and pray to God for a brighter future.

Bhogi 2026: Rituals

To mark a new beginning, people remove old and unwanted items from their homes on Bhogi day. Homes are thoroughly cleaned and whitewashed, then decorated with marigold flowers and mango leaves. Women create beautiful 'kolams' (rangoli) with rice flour and place pumpkin flowers and cow dung cakes within them.

On Bhogi, farmers worship their ploughs and farming tools. They apply vermilion and sandalwood paste to them. Thanksgiving is offered to the Sun God and Mother Earth before the first harvest. In many places, the 'Bhogi Mantalu' ritual is performed, where a sacred fire is lit and old items are thrown into it. Women walk around this fire, chanting mantras and singing songs

The Bhogi festival is a time for families and friends to celebrate together. On this day, 'Bhogi Pallu' is prepared, consisting of new rice, fruits, and coins, which are distributed among children. During the festival, people enjoy making rangoli, flying kites, and playing various traditional games.