Pongal - South Indian Harvest Festival

the paddy fields are ready to be harvested, green crops sparkle freshened by clear early dew, water lilts its way through channels time tested, first of South Indian harvests, brings hopes new! the time of the year that sees a weather shift, Sun in its northern ride moves to Capricorn, ushers an yield of plenty and nature’s gift, cheer grows in the village as the year is born! far further afield swinging in the warm breeze, stand tall succulent crops of sweet sugar canes, cultivated in rich soil they grow with ease, watered by the monsoons of previous rains! the farmers have a special joy in their walk, God gives in plenty when one has worked so hard, bags of different lentils they load and chalk, time to celebrate! festivities on card! 14th January Pongal is celebrated, where everything harvested makes a special meal, rice, lentils boiled and with black pepper grated, jaggery from sugar cane is tasty deal! women wear bright coloured silk with gold jewels, men are dressed in clean whites for the festive day, children fly kites, anointed cattle wear new bells, celebration of Pongal cheers all the way!! 10th Position Written 14/January/2021 Completely your choice (40) Brian Strand 11 syllables each line to introduce others to this beautiful festival that celebrates harvest and thanks God for the yeild!!