THOOTHUKUDI: On Monday, Pongal was celebrated well ahead of its schedule by a group of 42 tourists from the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, Mexico and Poland, who are on a winter tour. The group reached Chennai on December 28, and from there proceeded to Thoothukudi. The group’s itinerary includes Tirunelveli, Puducherry, Thanjavur and Madurai.
After reaching Thoothukudi, the group members were taken to a private farm at Sawyerpuram in auto rickshaws specially designed for them. The ride was called the Rickshaw Challenge Classic Run-2016. When they reached the farm, they were given sarees and dhotis to be worn. They then participated in a pongal preparation competition.
Of course, the members were first taught the preparation and then split into teams. Each team had a local member to assist them in preparing the item. The team that prepared the pongal in the quickest time was given a prize. Later in the evening, the team left for Tirunelveli to continue their tour.
Catherine from Canada, was on her first visit to India, was extremely happy with the warm welcome and hospitality afforded to the group everywhere.