Servants, farmers and the poor are fed and clothed, and given presents of money. On the next day, the cow, which is regarded as the symbol of the Holy Mother, is worshipped. Birds and animals are also fed.

In Andhra Pradesh, it is celebrated as a three-day harvest festival Pongal. It is a big event for the people of Andhra Pradesh. The Telugus like to call it 'Pedda Panduga' meaning big festival.

Each year, thousands of birds are severely injured or killed during Uttarayan, the annual kite-flying festival held in several provinces in India. Birds and other animals are at risk from the maanja, or kite string, in addition to the obvious hazards of thousands of kites in the air. These strings are coated with crushed glass so that competitors can try to slash one another's kites from the air. These exposed shards are so sharp that they often must be applied to the kite strings with gloves.

Birds are not the only ones injured in this festival. Each year, hundreds of people are cut by the maanja, or fall from a balcony or rooftop in an attempt to dominate the skies with their paper creations. The litter of downed kites, which get tangled in nests and power lines, places both people and animals at risk.
Larger birds such as flamingos, herons, eagles and cranes are most at risk because they have a broader wingspan; but pigeons, doves, crows and other smaller birds are also in danger.
Many voluntary organizations and individuals render their services during this time of the year and provide first aid leaving all the fun and fervor aside. Various awareness and educational programs are also held to sensitize people towards such harm.

Just in case you do plan to enjoy the kite flying event, here are a few tips that would come in handy. Fly kites on walled terrace and take care not to bend to catch strings. Preferably, fly kites in wide, open areas, away from the power lines or phone lines on top. Use cotton, linen or nylon strings, mix of glue and ground glass, dried and rolled onto reels known as 'firkees'. Do not sort for metallic threads, wire etc. If a kite gets caught on electrical lines, is cut and is floating through the roads or pass by terrace, refrain from catching it. Apply cream on hands and face not to get too much sunburn and cover eyes with glasses so as not to take direct sunrays.

Do not eat and stuff too much food and bitings through the day while flying the kite whole daylong. Eating too much undhiya, til laddo, chikkis, etc may only upset system and make 'tummies tremble'. Do not use abusive words if while rivalry fun, your kite is cut by another. Especially be good to neighbors so as not to invite fights. Be a Sport - Kite Flying is Fun and spirit of rejoicing!!!