Pongal Celebration 2021

“If a Farmer’s hands are slackened, even the ascetic state will fall”
(Excerpt from THIRUKURAL 1036 by Thiruvalluvar)

Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science, auspiciously began the promising year of 2021, with the Thanksgiving to Mother Nature through the prosperous Festival of Harvests – Pongal on 12 Jan. 2021. Mrs. A.M Malathi, First Women Detective of South India, Honorary Tree Warden, Forest Dept, Chennai, Organic Farmer, President, ExNora, Greater Chennai and a proud Alumna of HITS presided as the Chief Guest.The celebration washosted by, Ms. Tharika (3rd year, B.Tech. Aerospace) and Mr. Avinash Mallick (2nd year, B.Tech. CSE).

With Tamil Thai Vazhthu sung, everyone offered their respect for the farmers and State of Tamil Nadu.The preparation to make Pongal began with the blessings of the Lord of Sun. The Welcome Address was given by Dr. Pon. Ramalingam, Registrar, where he emphasized on the advanced methods of farming, extending a salute to all the farmers without whom the world may not survive. A Special Message was given by Wg. Cdr. K. R. Srikanth, Chief Admin Officer, HITS who shed some light on the history and importance of Pongal, and its traditions carried over through generations in South India, by sharing some nostalgic stories about celebrating Pongal during his childhood days.

Ms. Tharika enumerated the traditional History of the divine Festival of Pongal, giving thanks to Farmers who work day and night, and to God for enabling the Farmers to continue to provide. She also explained about the significance of the 4 days of the festival of Pongal, namely, Bhogi Pongal, Surya Pongal, Mattu Pongal and Kaanum Pongal. Mr. Avinash Mallick introduced the Chief Guest for Pongal Celebration 2021, Mrs. A.M Malathi, elucidating her various achievements and awards. He also divulged into a brief history of her notable services and ambitions towards the betterment and comfort of the society.The Felicitations for the Chief Guest was given by Dr. S. N. Sridhara, Vice Chancellor.

The magnificent Musical Band of HITS, POORVANG THE BAND, celebrated the joy and prosperity of Pongal through the Universal language of love, joy and peace that unites them, Music. The members of the Music Band, Ms. Ranjini (Fashion Design), Mr. Alwin Jebakumar (BCA), Mr. Franklin Paul (BBA) put up a splendid show that elated the audience in the beautiful vibe of the festival.The Pongal games were the most awaited by everyone despite age differences. The colours of youthfulness in everyone painted the Celebrations with a feeling of unity and brotherhood. Various games like Uri Adi, Tug of war, Target Hit, Water Transfer and Lemon & Spoon race evoked the children in young and old alike. Winners were awarded prizes by Mrs. A.M. Malathi. She congratulated everyone for their active participation and encourage them to practice our rich tradition and culture. The Prashad, Pongal, was later served to everyone present, along with Sugarcane.Mr. Hemanth R.J, Cultural Secretary, Student Council 2020-21 pursuing 4thyear B.Tech. ECE delivered the Vote of Thanks. The beautiful day, filled with happiness, concluded with a bullock cart ride around the campus with the Chief guest, and various members of the Hindustan Management and Faculty.

As the Tamil Adage goes, (The bright rays of the Sun, enlightens and brightens up the day and our lives), yet another blessed Pongal, came to an end, with the promise and assurance of good hope and prosperity to all.