Bharathi Association to Host Grand Pongal Festival on January 16

TDT I Manama 

The Bharathi Association, the Kingdom’s sole registered Tamil organization under the Ministry of Social Development, has officially announced a grand Pongal celebration scheduled for January 16, 2026. In a press conference the organisers detailed the all-day event, which is being organized in collaboration with Star Vision Events at the Indian Club to honor the traditional Tamil harvest festival.

The festivities will commence at 7:30 AM with a vibrant Kolam competition, followed by a series of traditional sports including Tug of War and Uri Adithal. Attendees will participate in the symbolic cooking of sweet rice in clay pots, chanting "Pongalo Pongal" as the rice overflows to signify prosperity. To ensure an authentic atmosphere, the venue will be decorated with sugar cane, mango leaves, and banana trees, providing a nostalgic experience for the thousands of community members expected from across Bahrain and the wider Gulf region.

Cultural heritage will take center stage during the morning and afternoon sessions, featuring a massive showcase of traditional folk dances. Over 60 performers will present styles such as Oyil Aattam, Parai Aattam, and Kavadi Aattam, while more than 60 women will participate in a grand Mega Kummi dance. All performances are under the expert choreography of celebrated dance teacher Nritya Kalaratna Mrs. Hansul Gani. Following the performances, a traditional feast will be served on banana leaves, offering a true taste of Tamil cuisine.

The celebration will conclude with an evening entertainment extravaganza featuring a live orchestra and guest celebrities from the Tamil film industry. This final session promises a high-energy mix of music, mimicry, and comedy, capping off a day dedicated to fostering cultural ties and community spirit within the Tamil diaspora.