Sankranti – A Feast of Tradition and Togetherness

Makar Sankranti, also known as Sankranti or Pongal, is a festive occasion that is widely observed in Karnataka and other southern states of India. Makar Sankranti” is a Hindu festival that marks the Sun’s transition into the zodiac sign of Capricorn and coincides on 14th and 15th of January every year and has tremendous cultural significance. This harvest festival marks the arrival of warmer weather and the end of the colder months.

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The term “Makar Sankranti” is derived from two words: Makara (Capricorn) is one of the zodiac’s twelve astrological signs. The crocodile, an animal thought to be able to move about both on land and in water, is linked to Makara in Hindu astrology. Sankranti (Transition) is the time when the sun shifts from one sign of the zodiac to another.

Sankranti Celebrations Across India

Harvest festivals are known by different names across India, including Magh Bihu in Assam, Uttarayan in Gujarat, and Pongal in Tamil Nadu. Sankranti, a festival of harvest, represents farmers’ gratitude for an abundant crop. Each region of India adds its own customs and rituals to the celebration, reflecting the variety of the country.

How is Makar Sankranti Celebrated in Karnataka?

Flying Kites: In Karnataka, kite flying is a common custom during this festival. Vibrant kites in a range of shapes and sizes fill the open skies. Kite-flying competitions amongst families and friends take place on rooftops, creating a visually impressive and joyful event.

Harvest Celebrations:

Farmers show gratitude for the good yield on Sankranti, which is essentially a harvest festival. During the celebrations, newly grown crops—especially sugarcane—are highlighted.

Preparing Pongal:

Each region has its own culinary traditions and making special meals is another essential part of Sankranti. Pongal is a traditional delicious sweet dish cooked with freshly harvested grains ( rice and lentils ) and jaggery. Families share this dish together to celebrate prosperity and abundance.

Rangoli:

Rangoli patterns made with colorful powders or flower petals surround the house entrances.

Ellu Birodhu Tradition: “Ellu Bella” is a mix of groundnuts, jaggery, and sesame seeds (ellu). The exchange of Ellu Bella represents the significance of speaking kindly and the sweetness of relationships.

Cultural Performances: Folk music, and traditional dances are all essential parts of Karnataka festivals. Communities unite to highlight the region’s rich cultural legacy.

Puja & Rituals: In order to obtain blessings for a prosperous new year, many individuals conduct various pujas and rituals on Makar Sankranti.

Community Festivities: Sankranti is a season dedicated to social get-togethers and community festivities.

Makar Sankranti Shopping

Markets come alive with a variety of traditional products, festive decorations, and vibrant colours during Sankranti. From clothes and accessories to special ingredients for festive dishes, these shops serve the different needs of people getting ready for the celebration. A variety of gifting options are available for shoppers, from classic gift packages to specially crafted hampers for family and friends. Here’s a glimpse into what you might find in a Sankranti shopping market:

Shops overflow with traditional clothing with elaborate designs and vivid colors. Vendors may specialize in Sankranti-specific attire, with themes such as kites, harvest, and cultural icons.

Decorative products with Sankranti themes, colourful rangoli powders, and diyas (lamps) are just a few of the items available in markets. Popular options include rangoli stencils with traditional theme paintings and kite-shaped design.

Stores are stocked with specific products such as sugarcane, sesame seeds, jaggery, and groundnuts for making Sankranti delights.

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Kites come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and colours at markets. Additionally kite strings, spindles, and other necessities are available for kite lovers.

Shops selling religious things such as idols, incense, and other sacred items attract people looking for puja (prayer) supplies.

A variety of gifting alternatives are available for shoppers, from classic gift packages to specially crafted hampers for close ones.

Makar Sankranti Collection at Gubbacci Apparels

Embrace the joy of Sankranti with thoughtful and festive gifts from Gubbacci Custom Apparels. Our unique designs draw inspiration from Sankranti’s diverse cultural heritage. Make your celebration personal by using traditional themes and selecting colors that appeal to you. In addition to showcasing quality clothing, our collection highlights the joy of wearing t-shirts that captures the spirit of this festival. Discover the Makar Sankranti T-Shirt Collection by Gubbacci where each item is customized just for you!

We hope you enjoyed our blog post on the celebration of Sankranti which is an auspicious festival that is widely celebrated with enthusiasm across the nation, highlighting India’s rich cultural legacy and customs. It reflects the best of traditions, from the beautiful decoration to the mouthwatering feasts and the lively dancing and music. While Sankranti celebrates the bountiful harvest, it also encourages a deep sense of gratitude for the gifts of nature. May the harvest season bring abundance and happiness to all!