Foreign tourists get taste of Tamil culture at Pongal celebrations in Madurai

Samathuva pongal celebrated in Collectorate and Corporation

Tourists from various foreign countries on Wednesday were presented with a slice of Tamil tradition and culture at Chathirapatti in Madurai district. They were accorded a traditional welcome with ‘arathi’ at the Pongal celebrations organised by Tamil Nadu Tourism Department.

Over 100 tourists participated in the celebrations.

Foreign tourists participating at a Pongal celebration organised by Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation at Chathirapatti in Madurai district on Wednesday.
| Photo Credit:
R. ASHOK

After arriving at Chathirapatti on tourist buses, they were then brought to the venue on bullock carts. They were captivated by the traditional dance and martial art forms such as Bharatanatyam, Karagattam, Silambam, and other performances. They also joined the artistes in the performances and clicked photographs and selfies with them.

The tourists along with the residents of Chathirapatti, prepared Pongal. They relished the Pongal together. They also joined the local residents in drawing colourful ‘kolams’. Traditional attire ‘vesti’ and ‘sari’ were also kept on display at the stalls put up at the venue. On January 17, they will visit Alanganallur to witness the world famous jallikattu.

Madurai District Tourism Officer T. Umadevi said the number of foreign tourists showing interest and participating in the pongal celebrations was increasing each year.

Foreign tourists participating at a Pongal celebration organised by Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation at Chathirapatti in Madurai district on Wednesday.
| Photo Credit:
R. ASHOK

Samathuva pongal was celebrated at Madurai Collectorate and Madurai Corporation premises. The event was presided over by Minister for Commercial Taxes and Registration P. Moorthy and Madurai Collector K.J. Praveen Kumar at Madurai Collectorate which was attended by employees of various government departments. The Collectorate wore a festive look.

At Corporation premises, Corporation Commissioner Chitra Vijayan and Madurai North MLA G. Thalapthi presided over the event which was attended by Corporation officials, staff, councillors and women self help groups.