Pongal 2011

Pongal is pretty much our Thanksgiving. It's a South Indian holiday celebrated for the harvest and my family takes rather seriously. It's a time to give thanks to God, to the Sun, to your farm animals and to your harvesters. In addition to all of that, an amazing spread of food is made.


My mom and aunt working hard to prepare for the puja and the brunch afterward.


My dad getting ready for the puja.


My dad cutting up sugar cane, one of the traditional foods used. We snacked on it all day while waiting for the food.


My dad and uncle waiting to dig in!


The spread...snap peas, pumpkin, potato, yams, green plantains and of course pongal- jaggery sweetened rice.

Pongal was great. It's such a special time for us and the traditions are ones I plan to follow for the rest of my life. Happy Pongal, y'all!