Makar Sankranti, marking the Sun’s transition into Capricorn (Makara), was celebrated with immense joy and enthusiasm across India. Known by various names such as Uttarayan, Pongal, Maghi, and Dahi Chura, the festival brought together diverse traditions that highlighted India’s cultural vibrancy.
Celebrations Across India
- Gujarat:
Union Home Minister Amit Shah celebrated Uttarayan by flying kites at his residence in Ahmedabad. Across the city, rooftops were bustling with families enjoying kite flying under clear skies.
- Rajasthan:
Jaipur lit up with lanterns and firecrackers. Families in the walled city began kite flying early in the morning. Rajasthan BJP President Madan Rathore joined the festivities, expressing his enthusiasm for the festival.
- Odisha:
The Tangiriaashuni Hill Makar Mela in Mayurbhanj attracted thousands of devotees for its one-day event. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi took a holy dip in the Baitarani River in Keonjhar.
- Uttar Pradesh:
The ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj saw over 1.5 crore devotees taking a sacred dip in the Ganges during the Amrit Snan. Pilgrims were welcomed with showers of flower petals, symbolizing devotion and cleansing.
- Tamil Nadu:
Pongal, celebrated as a harvest festival, saw women in Trichy making vibrant rangolis and families cooking Sweet Pongal in earthen pots. In Chennai, CISF personnel celebrated with games and traditional events, while Auroville Township hosted foreigners and locals dancing to the beats of dhol.
- Karnataka:
Guddali Swami of Shri Guddaliswami Matha distributed sugarcane slices as prasadam to devotees in Haveri.
- Bihar:
In Patna, Deputy CM Samrat Choudhary, BJP President Dilip Jaiswal, and Union Minister Chirag Paswan attended a grand Makar Sankranti event organized by the NDA.
A Celebration of Unity and Renewal
Makar Sankranti serves as a reminder of joy, togetherness, and the promise of new beginnings as the Sun enters Capricorn. Whether through kite flying, holy dips, or vibrant fairs, the festival unites millions across the country in celebration of life and harvest.