Kakaipidi vachen Kannupidi vachen Kakakum, kuruvikum kalyanam….reciting these verses all women and girls of the family place the ‘kanu pidi” … small balls of coloured cooked rice on turmeric leaves praying for the prosperity of their brothers and maternal home, a prayer that we all stay together like crows and sparrows. The thought behind this ancient custom is intertwined in sustaining nature and relationships. “Kaka ‘ the crow represents our piturus (forefathers). A small, beautiful ceremony invoking their blessings for family prosperity and unity, that befittingly culminates the 3-day Pongal pandigai where the women of the house go to their maternal homes for the special and customary lunch which comprises all mixed rice….. Puliodharai, Thengai Saadam, Thayir Saadam, Ericha Kuzhambu, Appalam, Vadam, and Sakkarai Pongal which was prepared the previous day. Iyengars do this ritual as a celebration, and even wear new clothes on this day. Gifts from the brothers and maternal home enhances the joy and celebration.
Pongal Festival Recipes Here:
