Tamil Nadu Pastoral Heritage Festival
(A celebration of pastoral life, livestock traditions, and grazing cultures)
Tamil Nadu, India
Thozhuvam Pastoral Kidai Pongal is a traditional Tamil festival celebrated during the Tamil month of Thai (தை). It is observed as an expression of gratitude to pastoral livestock—especially cattle, sheep, buffalo —that sustain agriculture and pastoral livelihoods. As part of the celebration, Pongal is prepared and offered as a mark of respect and worship.
The festival marks the completion of the harvest season and the beginning of a new agricultural cycle, while honouring the tireless labour of pastoral animals that are regarded as family members in farmers’ lives. Rooted in Sangam-era traditions, Kidai Pongal represents the enduring philosophy of pastoral harmony between humans, livestock, and nature.
Date: 16 January 2026
Venue: Virathanur, Madurai District
Time: 6:30 PM
Organiser: Thozhuvam Pastoral Research & Resource Centre
Madurai – 625020, Tamil Nadu, India. +91 98434 06111, info@thozhuvam.org