Thai Pongal is the Thanks giving to Sun God for Harvest. Pongal also referred to as “harvest festival”, is observed by the people of Tamil Nadu, located in the Southern part of India. The idea behind celebrating this day is the gratification of people towards God Sun, for bringing about the season of harvest, which is a boon for the entire community!

Pongal Vizhaa, one of the richest events in NETS tradition, was celebrated with full enthusiasm, energy and passion towards preserving Tamil culture and harmony.  The event was conducted at Littleton High School on Saturday, February 4, 2017 between 2:00 PM to 10:30 PM. Over 1000+ patrons attended this outstanding and unique event in the New England area. Programs included were Classical Dance/Singing, Movie Dance/Singing, Instrumental, Drama/Skit etc.

Around New England, we have seen many programs that are being conducted which involves competitions and dance/musical programs but NETS has always come forward to embrace and teach culture through the celebrations.

 

The program started with the traditional prayer - Tamil Thai Vazhthu by Kalaimagal Tamil School.  It was followed by a welcome address by the NETS President, Ms.Bamiela Venkat, who invoked the audience to continue motivating individuals and teams to promote Tamil Language and culture.

Our Special Guests for the evening were Srimathi. Ranjani Saigal from Ekal Vidyalaya and founder of Lokvani, Thiru. Ramasundar Ramani from Acton Science Club, Thiru. Murali Sethumadhavan from Acton Science Club and Srimathi. Devi Sundaresan from Kalaimagal Tamil School. 

The event had back to back entertaining performances by our super talents. To mention a few are the performances by the FH Super Heroes, Rock & Kuthu, Chandramukhi, Emerging Stars, Magalir Mattum, Roopa Vidya’s team of 23 performing Karagam, Jallikattu theme, Jumping Jacks, Fusion Songs, etc.

One of the key programs included the Eela Nathaswara Thavil Music troupe from Canada. They performed our traditional Pongal music kacheri performance.  Nadaswaram with the musical accompaniments, is considered to be one of the most ancient and unique music from Southern India. The musical extravaganza was brought into the auditorium through a parade.  

One of the attractions for the evening was having the dinner served on a banana leaf. Having a meal on a banana leaf (VAAZHAI ILAI VIRUNDHU) is a custom that dates back thousands of years, however its benefits are still relevant today. They not only impart a great aroma to the meal, but also a fresh beautiful look to the meal. They are also healthy, flavorful, hygienic, practical, chemical free and biodegradable. This dinner was Co-sponsored by Godavari Restaurant, Woburn.

 

NETS also introduced the “Jodi Porutham” event for the first time. This was a game show for couples, where the best couple with the most number of correct answers win the game. The winner of this unique, entertaining event was Yamini & Krishnan, with a $75 Gift Card sponsored by Swaagat Collections. NETS also introduced a selfie contest. Individuals were requested to post selfies expressing Indian culture and the Pongal Theme to their Facebook Page. The winner of this premiering competition was Sudha Nandakumar, with a $25 Gift Card sponsored by Swaagat Collections. NETS also gave the “NETS Achievement Award” to young individuals who had won prizes at the State and Nationals Levels in different areas of interest. These young individuals include Vikram Pathlam, Sinthya Kumar, and Akul Chennakesavan. Congrats to all NETS award winners! Thanks to Prabu, Senthil & Viveka from NETS for helping with the Competition and Brochure. Special Thanks to Ram Sundaram for the Audio work.

 

NETS is proud in bringing quality programs each time and this year is not an exception! With many programs that have been introduced this year, NETS has taken yet another big leap into driving and preserving Tamil Culture around New England. Most of the audience stayed through the end of the program since the programs were not just entertaining but also very refreshing.

The vote of thanks was rendered by Sumathi who thanked the sponsors and everyone who had attended the program for their priceless contribution of time and energy to make the event a grand success. Thanks to the Emcees of the event - Karthi, Viveka & Shanthy and NETS Youth Volunteers - Shruthi, Shivali and Kavya. Thanks to all Dinner Team Volunteers, without them it would have been lifeless. Thanks to the entire NETS Team for organizing this - special thanks to NETS Secretary and Treasurer - Manohar & Shanthy.

NETS would like to particularly thank our mega sponsor SUMATHI NARAYANAN REALTY. We would also extend our thanks to all the NETS youth group volunteers for their timely help.

As always, we look forward to our upcoming event Chithirai Vizhaa. 

PC: Krisp Fotos, Vijay Srinivasan Photography & Kolam Media Creations.