Chennai, January 14, 2026: Tamil Nadu marked the first day of the harvest festival, Bhogi, on Wednesday with the customary bonfires, welcoming the upcoming Pongal festivities. The celebrations, which signify the discarding of old and unwanted items and the start of new beginnings, led to the formation of mild smog in some urban areas early in the morning.

Residents lit bonfires in accordance with age-old traditions, burning unused household items and agricultural waste to symbolically clear out the old and welcome prosperity. Youngsters added to the festive spirit by beating drums in front of their homes, creating an atmosphere of joy and anticipation for Pongal, the major harvest festival celebrated the following day. Bhogi also marks the onset of the Tamil month ‘Thai’, signaling the start of a season of abundance and agricultural prosperity.

Impact on Flight Operations

Airport authorities reported that domestic flight operations were largely unaffected due to the mild nature and short duration of the smog. However, a few international arrivals from Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Colomboexperienced slight delays due to low visibility in the early hours.

In a public advisory, Chennai Airport authorities cautioned passengers about potential disruptions, stating, “Smog due to Bhogi festival activities and winter weather conditions may affect flight operations, causing delays, diversions, or cancellations. Passengers are requested to check flight status via the Flight Information Display Systems and stay in touch with their respective airlines. The safety of passengers is our priority.”

Environment-Friendly Practices Encouraged

While bonfires are central to Bhogi celebrations, authorities have long raised concerns over the practice of burning harmful items like tyres, plastics, chemical-coated papers, and tubes, which release dense black smoke, contribute to air pollution, and can irritate the eyes and respiratory system. The Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB)highlighted that the smell of bonfires this year was noticeably weaker compared to previous years, suggesting that environmentally conscious practices are increasingly being followed.

The TNPCB has been actively promoting “environment-friendly celebration of Bhogi” for the past 21 years. It has urged citizens to avoid burning plastics, tyres, and other hazardous materials, stressing that these practices not only impact air quality but also pose health risks and can disrupt essential services such as airport operations. Awareness campaigns are ongoing in districts across the state to ensure safe and sustainable festivities.

Cultural Significance of Bhogi

Bhogi, celebrated on the eve of Pongal, holds deep cultural and spiritual significance. Lighting bonfires is symbolic of letting go of the past, removing negativity, and embracing renewal and prosperity. It reflects the community’s respect for nature, agricultural abundance, and the changing seasons. Families come together to celebrate with rituals and traditional music, while children and youths participate enthusiastically in the celebrations.

The festival sets the stage for Pongal, which is celebrated across Tamil Nadu as a thanksgiving to nature, farmers, and the Sun God for a bountiful harvest. Bhogi is thus both a cultural ritual and a prelude to the more elaborate festivities of the harvest season, reinforcing values of hope, renewal, and gratitude.

Safety and Civic Guidelines

Authorities have also advised citizens to exercise caution while celebrating, especially around open fires and in densely populated neighborhoods. Proper monitoring of bonfires and the use of safe, biodegradable materials for burning are encouraged to prevent accidents and minimize environmental impact.

The TNPCB reiterated, “Public are requested to celebrate Bhogi without burning plastics, tyres, or tubes to protect the environment. Let the festivities be joyous, safe, and eco-friendly.”

Conclusion

As Tamil Nadu celebrates Bhogi with traditional fervor, the mild smog observed in parts of the state served as a reminder of the need to combine cultural observances with environmental responsibility. With the growing awareness around safe and eco-friendly practices, the festival continues to embody hope, new beginnings, and the spirit of community, setting the tone for the harvest celebrations of Pongal.