Union Home Minister Amit Shah concluded a two-day visit to Tamil Nadu on Monday, January 5, 2026, with a significant participation in the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) 'Modi Pongal' celebrations in Tiruchirappalli. This event, strategically timed ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections, saw Shah engaging in traditional festivities while delivering a strong political message.
The 'Modi Pongal' celebration, organized by the BJP Mahila Morcha, was held in Mannarpuram and drew over 2,000 participants. The event was branded as "Namma Ooru Modi Pongal," reflecting the BJP's effort to associate Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Tamil cultural traditions. Shah, dressed in traditional attire, joined party members in preparing Pongal, the traditional dish made with rice, dhal, jaggery, and ghee, in a symbolic gesture of cultural connection. As many as 1,008 earthen pots were used to cook the delicacy, with women participating in coordinated cultural programs.
The Home Minister's visit also included a stop at the historic Srirangam Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple for blessings before the Pongal event. Earlier, he visited the Sri Jambukeshwar Akilandeshwari temple in Thiruvanaikaval. On Sunday, January 4, 2026, Shah addressed the valedictory function of BJP state chief Nainar Nagenthran's public connect campaign, "Tamilagam Thalai Nimira Tamilanin Payanam" in Pudukkottai.
The BJP views the 'Modi Pongal' celebration as part of its broader strategy to strengthen its base in Tamil Nadu by combining cultural outreach with political mobilization. The event showcased traditional Tamil harvest celebrations, blending festive spirit with a strong political presence.
In addition to his political and cultural engagements, Shah also extended birthday wishes to DMK MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi, a gesture that drew attention in political circles as a sign of cordial relations between parties ahead of the elections.
Shah's two-day visit to Tamil Nadu underscores the BJP's intensified focus on the region as the 2026 Assembly elections approach. By participating in cultural events like 'Modi Pongal' and visiting temples, the BJP aims to connect with local communities and highlight its emphasis on blending governance with cultural identity in Tamil Nadu.
