Kanni Pongal: A Fusion of Tradition and Unity
17 January 2025
KUALA LUMPUR: The Sri Maha Mariamman Temple Bukit Kiara in Taman Tun Dr Ismail (TTDI) shone brightly as the epicentre of Malaysia's vibrant cultural heritage during this year's Kanni Pongal celebration, generously supported by Jasmine Food Corporation (JFC) as the event's main supporter.
This year's festival, aptly themed "Pongal Perpaduan" (Unity in Pongal), brought the nation together in a celebration of gratitude, tradition, and community spirit, emphasizing the harmony that exists in Malaysia's diverse cultural landscape.
At the forefront of this year's Kanni Pongal celebration is Jasmine Food Corporation (JFC), the main sponsor that has consistently demonstrated its commitment to nurturing unity and cultural heritage.
Other esteemed brands that shared JFC's values in quality and tradition partnered to support this meaningful celebration, included CSR Sugar, Goodday Milk, QBB Ghee, and BananaBro.
Together, these partnerships illuminated the event with a vibrant and heartfelt atmosphere, encapsulating the spirit of unity and cultural pride that defines Pongal.
As the event unfolded, devotees and attendees from diverse backgrounds came together to participate in traditional rituals, cultural showcases, and a grand communal feast, further solidifying Kanni Pongal's status as a symbol of cultural exchange and national unity in Malaysia.
With its roots in the Tamil harvest festival, Kanni Pongal has grown beyond its traditional boundaries to become an integral part of Malaysia's cultural tapestry.
This year's celebration marked a poignant moment in the country's cultural calendar, as attendees from all walks of life converged to pay tribute to the nation's rich cultural heritage and the enduring spirit of unity that makes Malaysia a vibrant and inclusive society.
The event's centrepiece was the Pongal pot cooking ceremony, where Jasmine Rice took pride of place. Participants prepared the sweet, fragrant Pongal rice - a symbol of prosperity - using Jasmine's premium quality rice mixed with Goodday milk in earthen pots, capturing the spirit of gratitude and abundance.
Guests were captivated by vibrant Kummi dances, traditional Tamil music, and intricate kolam designs, which provided a vivid display of Malaysia's artistic diversity.
Jasmine's contribution underscored its role as a unifying force throughout the celebration.
The highlight of the day was a communal feast featuring Pongal rice dishes and other vegetarian delicacies made using Jasmine Rice. The meal brought together people from all walks of life, demonstrating the power of food to unite.
Dennis Foo, JFC CEO expressed his pride in being part of such a meaningful event, saying "As Malaysia's leading rice brand, Jasmine is honoured to be at the heart of this celebration of unity. Pongal is more than a festival – it's an opportunity to build connections across communities. Supporting Kanni Pongal reflects our belief that food is not only nourishment but also a bridge to understanding and harmony."
Deputy Minister of National Unity, Senator Saraswathy Kandasami, emphasised the event's significance in fostering mutual respect and understanding.
"Kanni Pongal is a celebration of gratitude, but it also stands as a testament to Malaysia's strength in diversity. With Jasmine Rice's support, this year's celebration reminds us of the importance of honouring our traditions while embracing our shared identity as Malaysians".
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