PM Modi to Join Tamil Nadu Pongal Celebrations in Strategic Pre-Election Visit Ahead of 2026 Polls

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to embark on a three-day visit to Tamil Nadu from January 13 to 15, with plans to participate in Pongal celebrations alongside local farmers, according to BJP sources within the state.

This strategic visit, scheduled ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections, is considered by party officials as a significant outreach initiative targeting rural voters and reinforcing cultural connections in Tamil Nadu.

Senior BJP leaders have revealed that the visit is being organized around Pongal festivities, which would mark the first instance of the Prime Minister joining Tamil Nadu farmers for their traditional harvest celebrations.

Party insiders suggest this outreach aims to strengthen the BJP's connection with rural communities while emphasizing its commitment to Tamil culture and identity.

According to the preliminary schedule, Prime Minister Modi is expected to attend the concluding ceremony of Kashi Tamil Sangamam 4.0 in Rameswaram, an initiative designed to reinforce the historical and cultural bonds between Tamil Nadu and Kashi.

The Prime Minister is also anticipated to participate in the final event of Thamizhagam Thalai Nimira Thamizhanin Payanam, a statewide outreach program led by BJP Tamil Nadu president Nainar Nagenthran, planned to take place in Pudukkottai.

"With Assembly elections on the horizon, the Prime Minister's engagement in Pongal celebrations with farmers will convey a powerful political and cultural statement," noted a senior BJP leader.

The visit is intended to highlight the party's attention to agricultural issues while strengthening its efforts to connect with Tamil traditions and sentiments.

This proposed visit is also expected to coincide with important developments regarding political alliances.

Sources indicate that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Tamil Nadu is likely to be formally established before Pongal, with several regional parties expected to officially join the coalition. During his stay, PM Modi is anticipated to hold discussions with NDA leaders to solidify electoral strategy and coordination for the upcoming Assembly elections.

The BJP is currently conducting negotiations with various parties, including the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK), Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK), Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AMMK), and expelled AIADMK leader O. Panneerselvam.

Party officials mention that efforts are underway to finalize alliance negotiations before the Prime Minister's visit.

Sources also suggest that VK Sasikala, a close associate of former Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa, is in talks with the NDA. Although she remains ineligible to contest elections, an insider revealed she is expected to support the alliance's campaign efforts.

Meanwhile, party sources report that BJP State president Nainar Nagenthran is currently in Delhi for discussions with central leadership, as preparations intensify for the Prime Minister's planned visit and the finalization of alliance and organizational matters in Tamil Nadu.