The festival of Pongal is being celebrated today in Tamil Nadu and several other parts. AIR correspondent reports that Pongal festivities have begun on this first day of the Tamil month 'Thai,' which is considered auspicious in Tamil Nadu, as farmers finish their harvest and ready themselves for new beginnings. <br />''<br />''People, clad in traditional new dress prepared the Pongal sweet mix by the dawn of the day. Jallikkattu game is being held in several parts of the state, that would go on from today for many weeks. Thousands of bulls have been registered for the game, along with many more youth who would try their hands on taming them. The Animal Welfare Board representatives and government officials keep a close watch of the games. Though the cyclone Gaja is a dampener in the spirit of Pongal festivities this time, with the deficient monsoon rainfall adding to the problems of the farmers, the Pongal spirit is being seen bubbling in their minds with enthusiasm. <br />''<br />''<br />''<br />''<br />