Makar Sankranti : Explore the harvest festivals of India!

Mostly, the Hindus follow the lunar calendar, however Makar Sankranti in India is based on the solar cycle and so it falls on the same date every year. This harvest festival is celebrated across the country but is known by different names in different regions, with unique rituals and importance. 

Celebration of Makar Sankranti in North India  

In states like Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and Jammu Kashmir, Makar Sankranti in North India is celebrated as Lohri. It is usually celebrated on 13th January every year and is celebrated to mark the end of the winter and arrival of longer days. People celebrating gather around the bonfire and offer sesame seeds, peanuts, popcorn, Revri and jaggery to Agni Devta.

 The next day is considered as Maghi in parts of Himachal Pradesh and Punjab. Devotees donate food, clothes, take holy baths and participate in festivities. Apart from that, Kite flying is one of the main activities depicting brotherhood, joy and happiness in a community. Makar Sankranti in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand is popularly known as Khichdi Parv. People celebrating often offer khichdi to Sun God and take holy dip in Ganga especially at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj. 

Celebration of Makar Sankranti in Western & Central India 

Makar Sankranti in Gujarat is known as Uttarayan which is one of the biggest festivals of the state. Kite flying is the main activity that takes place. The entire sky is full of colourful kites and people participate in kite flying battles making the sky look picturesque. This activity is known as Sanjo and traditional dishes are prepared such as Undhiyo and Jalebi. 

Ahmedabad makar sankranti is also extremely popular and is celebrated by performing rituals like kite flying on terraces and engaging in friendly competitions. People shout ‘Kai po che’ and prepare delicious local sweets such as chikki, and til ladoos. 

Makar Sankranti in Maharashtra celebrate by exchanging til-gul and wish each other by saying ‘Til-gul ghya god bola’. Women also participate in haldi-kumkum ceremonies and prepare traditional and delicious sweets like puran poli and gul-poli. 

In states like Rajasthan and Haryana Makar Sankranti is popularly known as Sakraat where people prepare bajra khichdi, ghevar, and sweets which are prepared of sesame and jaggery. 

Celebration of Makar Sankranti in South India

The long list of upcoming festivals in India begins with Makar Sankranti, and this harvest festival is known as Pongal in Tamil Nadu which is a four day celebration. The first day is known as Bhogi Pongal, the second day is called Thai Pongal, the third day is known as Mattu Pongal and the final and the last day is known as Pongal. People decorate their homes with Kolam and delicious dishes like ven pongal and Sakkarai Pongal are prepared.

Popularly known as Pedda Panduga in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, it is observed over four days including Bhogi, Sankranti, Kanuma and Mukkanuma. However, in Karnataka Makar Sankranti festival is known as Suggi Habba or Makara Sankramana. Here a different ritual takes place  known as ‘Ellu-Bella’ where people exchange a mixture of coconut, peanuts, seeds, jaggery and eat something sweet and wish for a peaceful and prosperous year. 

Celebration of Makar Sankranti in Eastern and Northeastern States 

There are different places to visit in India during the harvest festival celebration. Along with all others, the eastern states of India such as West Bengal, Odisha and Assam also celebrate this harvest festival with happiness and enthusiasm. It is known as Poush Sankranti or Pusna and many traditional dishes are prepared such as Pitha and people also take holy baths in popular Ganga Sagar Mela. Also, in Assame it is known as Magh Bihu or Bhogali Bihu. 

Concluding Thoughts 

The harvest festivals or Makar Sankranti in different states are celebrated with unique rituals, customs and traditions but with one motive and that is to spread joy and enthusiasm and seek good fortune for the upcoming year. 

India is a land of colorful festivals, and joyful celebrations. If you want to witness the diverse festivities, undeniable charm and irresistible energy of this country, you must read our India Travel Guide. It offers you important details, valuable insights and other practical tips to plan your trip seamlessly.

 There are many winter tourist places in India but you should definitely plan your trip during festivals so that you can witness the cultural and traditional magic of India.  One of the key benefits of traveling here during the festive season is a chance to communicate with locals, taste the authentic cuisine and witness the indigenous practice and legacy of India 

FAQs

Why do we celebrate Makar Sankranti?

The festival is celebrated as the harvest season expressing gratitude to Mother Nature. It signifies renewal, prosperity and positivity. 

What traditional food items are prepared during the harvest festival?

Til-gud, chikki, pithas, pongal rice and other sweets. 

When are the harvest festivals usually celebrated in India?

Mostly the harvest festivals are celebrated between January and April. However it is also dependent on the crop cycle and regional agricultural practices.

How is Makar Sankranti celebrated in different states of India?

The festival is celebrated differently in every state such as kite flying is extremely popular in Gujarat, Pongal in Tamil Nadu, Lohri in Punjab, Magh Bihu in Assam and Sankranti in Maharashtra and Bihar. 

When is Makar Sankranti celebrated in India?

Makar Sankranti is usually celebrated on January 14th or 15th every year as it follows the solar calendar.