Chennai, Jan. 16 -- As part of the Pongal festival, one of the most important traditional celebrations of Tamil Nadu, Mattu Pongal is being celebrated with great enthusiasm across the state today. Mattu Pongal, also known as Cow Pongal, is observed every year as a mark of gratitude to cattle, which play a vital role in agriculture and human life.

On the occasion of Mattu Pongal, cows, bulls, and other cattle were bathed, decorated, and worshipped at homes and farms. Turmeric, kumkum, and flower garlands were adorned on the cattle, and special prayers were offered. Traditional Pongal dishes were prepared and fed to the cattle as part of the rituals.

In Thoothukudi city, special prayers were conducted at the Vaikunda pathi PerumalTemple, ...