- A spectacular festival at Career College auditorium
Bhopal: 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. The event was graced by Vishwas Sarang, Minister of Sports and Youth Welfare, who was the Chief Guest of the evening, along with other dignitaries.
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.”
A. Swami Durai, General Secretary of the Bhopal Tamil Sangam, echoed his sentiments, adding, “The Pongal festival is not just a time for celebration, but also an opportunity to reflect on the importance of community, family, and tradition.”
This year’s Pongal 2025 event in Bhopal not only showcased the depth and beauty of Tamil culture but also served as an invitation to people from all backgrounds to experience the traditions and customs that have been passed down through generations.
As the sun set over the Bhopal cityscape, the Career College Auditorium came alive with energy, warmth, and celebration. The festival kicked off with an inaugural address by Vishwas Sarang, who spoke of the importance of cultural unity and the role of festivals in bringing people together.
Cultural performances by renowned artists
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 Ministry of Culture, Government of India. 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.
