Bhogi 2025: History, Significance And Wishes For The Festival

As India gears up for the harvest season, the southern states mark the beginning of Pongal festivities with Bhogi, the first of the four-day festival majorly celebrated in the southern states of Telangana, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Bhogi falls on January 13 each year and sets the stage for Sankranti, Pongal and Lohri, marking the arrival of longer days and agricultural abundance.  

The History of Bhogi

Bhogi is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology and tradition. It is dedicated to Lord Indra, the deity of rain, who is believed to bless the land with fertility and prosperity. Farmers, in turn, offer prayers for timely rains and bountiful crops. The day is also associated with Lord Krishna, who, as a child, stole butter from villagers that was later termed "bhog" (prasad). Some people also associate the festival with Lord Krishna lifting the Govardhan Hill to protect villagers from torrential rains

Bhogi thus represents the triumph of positivity over adversity and the harmonious relationship between humans and nature.  

Significance of Bhogi

Bhogi carries profound cultural and symbolic importance. It is a day of transition and transformation, encouraging people to discard old, unwanted items and bad habits, making way for new beginnings. Bonfires are lit in homes and communities, symbolising the burning of the past and the welcoming of a bright future. This act, known as Bhogi Mantalu, represents purification and renewal, both physical and spiritual.  

For farmers, Bhogi signifies the completion of one agricultural cycle and the hope for a prosperous new harvest. Homes are cleaned and decorated with kolams (rangoli patterns), drawn with rice flour and adorned with flowers and turmeric, reflecting gratitude and the promise of abundance. Families prepare traditional delicacies, such as Pongal, a sweet rice dish cooked with jaggery and lentils, to mark the festive spirit.  

Wishes and Greetings on Bhogi

Bhogi is not just a festival but a time to connect with loved ones and share joy and positivity. People exchange heartfelt wishes, including:  

• "May the light of Bhogi illuminate your life with joy and success."
• "Wishing you a Bhogi filled with warmth, love, and prosperity."
• "On this Bhogi, may you burn away all sorrows and embrace a future full of happiness."  

These wishes emphasise the themes of renewal, hope and unity that Bhogi embodies. In Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Karnataka, families come together to celebrate this occasion with prayers, feasts and traditional rituals.  

This Bhogi, let's celebrate the spirit of renewal, cherish our traditions, and spread happiness with loved ones.