Sankranti

What is Sankranti?

A Celebration of Abundance: Sankranti and Pongal stand out as vibrant celebrations of harvest and abundance. As we delve into these festivities, we’ll unravel the cultural threads that bind communities across India.

Sankranti: The Solar Odyssey

Makar Sankranti, widely celebrated across India, marks the sun’s transition into the Capricorn zodiac. The festival signifies the end of winter and the beginning of longer days. In Gujarat, the festival manifests as the colorful Uttarayan, featuring kite-flying competitions that fill the sky with vibrant hues. People engage in friendly duels, showcasing their kite-flying skills, and the entire atmosphere resonates with joy. In Punjab, Makar Sankranti is celebrated as Lohri, marked by bonfires, traditional dances, and the sharing of sweets. The diversity in the celebration of Makar Sankranti reflects the cultural richness of India.

Lohri: Bonfires and Harvest Celebrations

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Lohri, associated with Makar Sankranti, is predominantly celebrated in Punjab. This harvest festival is marked by the lighting of bonfires, symbolizing the end of winter and the longer days ahead. People come together to dance the traditional Bhangra, sing folk songs, and share the warmth of the bonfire. Lohri is a communal celebration that emphasizes the importance of community and the agricultural abundance that sustains it.

The top three special dishes made for this festival:

1. Sarson da Saag and Makki di Roti: This iconic combination features mustard greens cooked with spices (Sarson da Saag) served with unleavened cornflour flatbread (Makki di Roti).
2. Til and Gur (Sesame and Jaggery Sweets): Lohri is incomplete without the traditional sweets made with sesame seeds and jaggery, symbolizing the harvest season.
3. Pindi Chana: Pindi Chana, a spiced chickpea curry, is a hearty dish enjoyed during Lohri festivities.

Sankranti in Andhra Pradesh

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Decorated Bulls for Sankranti – Below walks through fire

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In Andhra Pradesh, Sankranti is a three-day extravaganza, each day with its unique significance. The first day, Bhogi, involves the burning of old possessions, symbolizing new beginnings. The second day, Sankranti, sees colorful rangoli designs adorning homes, and families coming together to share festive meals. The third day, Kanuma, is dedicated to the worship of cattle. This three-day celebration showcases the diversity of customs within the broader framework of Sankranti.

The top three special dishes made for this festival:

1. Pulihora (Tamarind Rice): Pulihora, a tangy and flavorful rice dish, is a Sankranti staple in Andhra Pradesh.
2. Ariselu (Sweet Rice Pancakes): Ariselu, made with rice flour and jaggery, are deep-fried until golden brown, creating a delightful sweet treat.
3. Garelu (Urad Dal Vada): Garelu, crispy and savory urad dal vadas, are enjoyed during Sankranti festivities.

Pongal: Tamil Nadu’s Harvest Symphony

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Pongal, a harvest festival celebrated in Tamil Nadu, is a grand affair. The festival spans four days, with each day holding its distinct significance. The highlight is the preparation of Pongal, a dish made with newly harvested rice, symbolizing prosperity and abundance. The festivities involve traditional music, dance, and the exchange of sugarcane and colorful kolams (rangoli). Pongal is a time for gratitude and appreciation for the bounties of the harvest.

The top three special dishes made for this festival:

1. Ven Pongal (Savory Rice Porridge): Ven Pongal, a comfort dish made with rice and lentils, is a savory delight.
2. Chakkarai Pongal (Sweet Jaggery Pongal): Chakkarai Pongal, prepared with jaggery and ghee, is a delicious sweet variation.
3. Medu Vada (Urad Dal Fritters): Medu Vada, crispy and savory urad dal fritters, complements the Pongal feast.

Bhogali Bihu: Assam’s Harvest Festival

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Bhogali Bihu, celebrated in Assam, marks the end of the harvesting season. It is characterized by community feasts, known as Uruka, where people come together to share traditional Assamese dishes. The night is spent around bonfires, reinforcing the sense of community and warmth during the winter season. The festival also involves traditional sports and cultural events, making it a holistic celebration of Assamese culture.

The top three special dishes made for this festival:

1. Laru (Sesame and Jaggery Balls): Laru, made with sesame seeds and jaggery, is a sweet delight during Bhogali Bihu.
2. Pitha (Assorted Rice Cakes): Pitha, a variety of rice cakes, is a traditional delicacy enjoyed during the festival.
3. Masor Tenga (Fish Curry): Masor Tenga, a tangy fish curry with bamboo shoots, is a savory highlight.

Uttarayan: Gujarat’s Extravaganza

Uttarayan, the kite festival in Gujarat, coincides with Makar Sankranti. The skies above Gujarat transform into a vibrant canvas with kites of various shapes and sizes. The festival is not just about kite-flying; it is a cultural spectacle that includes traditional food, music, and the spirit of friendly competition. Families and friends gather on terraces to enjoy the festivities, creating an atmosphere of joy and togetherness.

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Kite Festival: Colors in the Sky

The Kite Festival, an integral part of Makar Sankranti celebrations, is especially vibrant in Gujarat. The sky becomes a canvas of colorful kites, creating a visual spectacle. Participants engage in skillful maneuvers, attempting to cut each other’s kite strings. The festival is not just a competition; it’s a celebration of skill, artistry, and the joy of flying kites. Families and friends gather on rooftops, adding to the festive spirit with music, food, and camaraderie.

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The top three special dishes made for this festival:

1. Undhiyu: Undhiyu, a mixed vegetable curry, is a signature dish during the Uttarayan festivities.
2. Jalebi: Jalebi, a deep-fried sweet, adds a touch of sweetness to the celebrations.
3. Fafda: Fafda, a crispy and savory snack, is a popular treat during Uttarayan.