Regena: Why Pongal festival hold a special place?Actor Regena Cassandrra, who was born and reared in chennai, tamil Nadu, holds a particular place in her heart for Pongal. With origins in South indian traditions, this multi-day harvest celebration celebrates plenty, gratitude, and togetherness. "I was raised in a Christian home, but the cultural influences from my friends, neighbors, and community made me a pongal," the 34-year-old performer said of her childhood.Renowned for her parts in films like as Thalaivii (2021), Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga (2019), and Maanagaram (2017), Cassandrra has a positive memory of Pongal. "I used to go to the pongal puja as a child by borrowing my friends' traditional attire. Sakkarai (sweet) and ven (savory) pongal are the two types of pongal dishes. In addition to helping with the preparation, I would definitelysavor the delicious pongal," she says. I believe my favorite is Sakkarai Pongal.Cassandrra asserts that Pongal's core characteristic is its inclusivity. "Outside my house, my housekeeper continues to create beautiful kolams (rangoli)." She does it with such enthusiasm that it's a pleasure to behold her. We also prepare a unique lunch spread.She adds that she has observed pongal in other cities, including as delhi and Mumbai, and that there is something special about the way Tamilians celebrate the holiday—it feels so genuine and full of love. This year, Cassandra is ecstatic about a particular event in her hometown. "For the first time, chennai is hosting a balloon festival during Pongal. I'm going because it's going to be such a great way to celebrate," she says.
