New Delhi, Jan. 15 -- Leaders of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), the political party led by actor Vijay, extended greetings for Thai Pongal and the Tamil New Year on Thursday, triggering a fresh debate over the cultural and political significance of linking Pongal with the Tamil New Year.

In a message shared on social media, TVK president Vijay said, "On the auspicious festival of Thai Pongal, may love and peace fill the lives of Tamils across the world, and may health and prosperity flourish. Wishing everyone a joyful Pongal and a happy Tamil New Year."

The greeting drew attention because, traditionally, the Tamil New Year is observed in mid-April during the Tamil month of Chithirai, not in January during Thai Pongal. In 2008, the DMK ...