Ecumenical Pongal festival in Tamil Nadu: A celebration of unity, harmony on India's Republic Day

The Ecumenical Pongal Festival, the harvest festival of the Tamil people, was celebrated in the Archdiocese of Madurai, south India, with people of various religions and denominations on India's 76th Republic Day, January 26, 2025.

The celebration was a festival of joy, harmony, and peace that took place at St. Antony’s Parish in Palanganatham, Madurai. It was also an occasion to pay to farmers.

The event began with a vibrant procession by the local community, featuring cultural dances and Pongal pots carried by people from different religious backgrounds.

Together, they prepared and showcased the traditional Pongal dish on the festive stage.

The celebration was graced by local political and religious leaders, whose speeches encouraged students and farmers, emphasizing the importance of unity and communal harmony in India’s multicultural society.

Additionally, leaders from various religious communities, including Hindus, Muslims, Christians (and their denominations), Buddhists, members of the Brahma Kumaris association, and the Minority People Movement (CPM wing), attended and contributed to the occasion.

Father Benedict Barnabas, the regional secretary for the Dialogue Commission of Tamil Nadu Bishops' Council, said, "We need to give greater importance to agriculture and uphold the human dignity of farmers. We must respect all farmers."

"This cultural event unites humanity," said Father S.M. Paul Britto, secretary for the Commission for Ecumenism and Religious Dialogue of the Archdiocese of Madurai. "Let us be ready to go beyond boundaries to bring joy and peace to the world."

The event also saw enthusiastic participation from youth and children through cultural dances, songs, and poetry recitations.  

Mr. Marichami, the president of the local farmers' association at Madakkulam, presided over the function.

The program was organized by Father S.M. Paul Britto, Secretary for the Commission for Ecumenism and Religious Dialogue of the Archdiocese of Madurai, along with his team, the members of Thiruvarutperavai, the Minority People Movement (CPM wing), Parish Priest Father Xavier Raj, the parish priest of St. Antony's Parish, parishioners, and teachers of the R.C. School of St. Antony’s Parish, Palanganatham.

Organizers thanked volunteers from the commissions, movements, and parishioners for their support.

The celebration highlighted the importance of preserving cultural traditions and promoting harmony.

"The celebration underscored the need to safeguard fundamental rights and foster unity in India’s multicultural society," said Father S.M. Paul Britto.