Pongal teaches value of nature and reconciliation : Sajith

By Yohan Perera

Pongal is one of the oldest festivals practised by Hindus and it teaches the value of nature and reconciliation, Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa said yesterday.

Speaking during a Thai Pongal programme held at the Opposition Leader’s office, Mr. Premadasa said Pongal is a festival through which Hindus pay tribute to nature and animals that help them to reap a good harvest from their crops.

“Hinduism is one of the oldest religions in the world. This Pongal is a festival which Hindus have practised for centuries. They pay tribute to those who help them to gather a good harvest from their crops. They pay tribute to the Sun and the cattle that help them to harvest their crops. Similar festivals are held in many countries such as Canada and Japan where they pay tribute to everyone who help them reap their harvest. Therefore Thai Pongal teaches the value of reconciliation The whole world has come to a standstill today as man had distanced himself from  nature,” he said.

• Hinduism is one of the oldest religions in the world. This Pongal is a festival which Hindus have practised for centuries