In Andhra Pradesh, Pongal celebrations start a month in advance. Bhogi is the day preceding Sankranti and Kanumu is the day after. On Bhogi day, in the early morning, a bonfire is lit up with waste before the traditional special bath. Pongali (rice pudding with milk) is an important item during this festival. Special dishes, like ariselu (sweet rice cakes), are prepared. On Kanumu day animals are decorated and races are held, sometimes the banned cockfights, bullfights and ram fights are included. Sun, Mahabali (a mythological Dravidian king) and Godadevi (Goddess Goda) are worshiped during this harvest festival.

Muggulu (Rangoli), Gobbillu, Bhogi Mantalu (bonfire) Bommala Koluvu, Hari Dasulu and Gangireddulu were the endearing sights of Sankranthi season. On Bhogi day the attention is on children. Children are showered with Senagalu, (soaked whole chenna), sugar cane and coconut bits, Regi Pandlu, and copper coins to remove “Dhristi” or to protect them from any evil spell. On Sankranthi day the attention is on the newly married daughters and sons-in-law, and other family members. A nice Sankranthi Vindu Bhojanam (festive meal) is shared by all, after the “Ishta Devatha” Pooja.

On the third day, the attention is on “those that helped” during the year. Farmers washed, decorated cattle that day. Servants were given new clothing or other gifts. During the first three days, young girls invited the neighbors to visit their Bommala Koluvu. Visitors are offered Pasupu, Kunkuma, Thambulam (pan) and fruits. On the forth day, the women and children take a pair of Bommalu from the Koluvu to the river, in a procession with Mangala Vadyalu. The procession stopped at each street to gather more participants. The Bommala pair was given a boat ride (Vaalladimpu). Everyone returned home after enjoying a snack of Pulihora and Daddojanam on the waterfront.