'Vana Pongal' celebrations held at Athikadavu on Monday brought the joy of Pongal to the residents of various tribal settlements in the district.
The Coimbatore District (Rural) Police, non-Governmental organisation Nizhal Maiyam and the Lions Club of Aristo jointly organised the celebrations that saw the participation of over 500 people.
The celebrations began with a puja and the preparation of Pongal. The celebrations included cultural programmes, Pongal feast and distribution of aids to the elderly and children.
R. Pandiarajan, Superintendent of Police, Coimbatore Rural, inaugurated the celebrations in the presence of A. Mohan Navaz, Additional Superintendent of Police (Naxal Special Division - West Zone), other police officers and volunteers of Nizhal Maiyam.
Mr. Pandiarajan said the event was held to bring the spirit of the traditional festival to the tribal settlements and, thereby, strengthen the bond between the police and the people. The organisers said that dhoties, shirts, sarees and tricycles were given to 350 residents from tribal settlements. Note books were given to children.
