[1] It is observed in the month of Thai according to the Tamil solar calendar and usually falls on 16 or 17 January.
The day of Kaanum Pongal is often acknowledged as the Thiruvalluvar Day in remembrance of the great historic Tamil writer, poet and philosopher Thiruvalluvar who was known for writing the world famous Thirukural.
People believe Kaanum Pongal is an auspicious day to arrange marriage proposals and to kick start new bonds and relationships.
Kaanum Pongal is the day of relaxation and enjoyment as it implies that people spend their time by arranging family trips, picnics, visiting neighbours and relatives houses.
Unmarried girls celebrate the festival by playing in the water at the river banks and pray the god to have a very successful matrimonial life.