Six places where Makar Sankranti is celebrated with fervour

Makar Sankranti marks the sun’s transition into Capricorn and is celebrated across India as a harvest festival. While the core meaning remains the same, gratitude, renewal, and abundance, the ways it is observed vary beautifully from region to region, blending food, rituals, and local traditions.

Ahmedabad, Gujarat: In Ahmedabad, Makar Sankranti comes alive through the famous International Kite Festival. The city’s skies fill with vibrant kites as rooftops turn into celebration zones. Families prepare traditional foods like undhiyu and chikki, making the festival a lively mix of competition, community, and cuisine.

Chennai, Tamil Nadu: In Tamil Nadu, Makar Sankranti is celebrated as Pongal, a multi-day harvest festival. The second day, Thai Pongal, is dedicated to thanking the sun god. Homes are decorated with kolams, fresh sugarcane is shared, and sweet pongal is cooked as a symbol of prosperity.

Jaipur, Rajasthan: Jaipur observes Makar Sankranti with both spiritual and festive fervour. Kites dominate the skyline while temples host special prayers. Locals dress in bright attire, exchange sweets like ghewar and til-gud, and celebrate the seasonal shift with joy and colour.

Patna, Bihar: In Patna, Makar Sankranti is known as Khichdi Parv. Devotees visit temples early in the morning and donate food and essentials. Eating khichdi made with rice and lentils is considered auspicious, symbolising warmth, nourishment, and togetherness during winter.

Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh: Makar Sankranti is one of the most auspicious bathing days at the Triveni Sangam. Devotees gather before sunrise to take a holy dip, believing it cleanses sins and brings spiritual merit. The atmosphere is deeply devotional, marked by prayers, charity, and simplicity.

Udaipur, Rajasthan: Udaipur’s lakeside celebrations offer a serene yet festive experience. Kite flying is popular, but the focus remains on rituals, charity, and family gatherings. The city blends spiritual customs with scenic beauty, making the festival feel intimate and culturally rich.