During winters, Chennai comes alive with religious and cultural events and a festive mood engulfs the city. If you are in Chennai in January, you will witness Pongal celebrations that go on for five days. The highlights of the festival include Chakkara Pongal, a delicacy made of sweetened rice and ghee, and the bullfight which marks the end of the celebrations. The process of cooking Chakkara Pongal is as much of an event as its consumption.
Every December Chennai also holds a five week-long cultural event called the 'Music Season'. There are Carnatic music and classical dance performances by hundreds of artists during the weeks.
Chennai also has a vibrant Tamil theatre scene. Social commentary, satire and parodies are the preferred mode of expression. Historical plays are also popular.
