The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Jordan celebrated the Thai Pongal Festival on 16 January 2026 at the Chancery premises, with the participation of members of the Sri Lankan community and Embassy staff. The Chancery was decorated with traditional Kolam designs, sugarcane, banana trees, and flowers, creating a festive and auspicious atmosphere. Thai Pongal symbolizes thanksgiving, prosperity, wealth, unity, and new beginnings.
The main ritual of the day was the preparation of the traditional Pongal dish. As the milk boiled over, symbolizing abundance and prosperity, the gathering joyfully exclaimed “Pongalo Pongal,” expressing hopes for happiness, and good fortune. The freshly prepared Pongal was first offered to the Sun as a gesture of gratitude. Poojas were conducted seeking prosperity, harmony, and well-being for the Sri Lankan community in Jordan.
In her opening remarks, the Ambassador of Sri Lanka to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, J.A.D.S. Priyangika Wijegunasekara extended Thai Pongal wishes to the Hindu Tamil community living in Jordan and emphasized the significance of the festival, highlighting its significance and of the close connection between humanity, nature, and the land. The Thai Pongal Festival message of the President of Sri Lanka was read by the Counsellor, Gajithra Navan.
The festival concluded with the serving of traditional Pongal and Sri Lankan snacks to all attendees.
The Embassy of Sri Lanka
Amman
22 January 2026
