As the new year begins, so too does the excitement for the forthcoming Sankranti holidays in 2024. This joyous festival, marking the transition of the Sun to the Makara rashi (Capricorn) and the onset of longer days, is celebrated with immense fervor and enthusiasm in various parts of India. Sankranti, also known as Pongal in Tamil Nadu, Uttarayan in Gujarat, Magh Bihu in Assam, and Poush Parbon in West Bengal, is a time of joy, abundance, and cultural unity.
What is Sankranti all about?
Sankranti, derived from the Sanskrit word ‘sankramana’, signifies the movement of the Sun from one zodiac sign to another. It is a festival that celebrates the harvest season, with farmers expressing gratitude to the Sun God for a bountiful crop.
Things to do during Sankranti holidays:
- Kite Flying: One of the most popular traditions during Sankranti is kite flying, especially in states like Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Telangana.
- Bonfires: Bonfires are lit to seek blessings from the Sun God and ward off evil spirits in many parts of the country.
- Traditional Cuisine: Indulge in traditional delicacies like til ke laddoo, pindi vantalu, pongal, and bihu feasts.
Sankranti festivals across India:
- Makar Sankranti: Celebrated with great enthusiasm in North India, especially in states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
- Pongal: Tamil Nadu’s version of Sankranti, which includes rituals like boiling milk in a new clay pot until it overflows.
- Uttarayan: In Gujarat, people flock to the rooftops to fly kites and relish delicious delicacies like undhiyu and chikkis.
- Magh Bihu: Assam celebrates with feasts, traditional songs and dances, and the famous Bihu folk dance.
- Poush Parbon: West Bengal’s version involves the preparation of traditional sweets like pithe and patishapta.
Best places to celebrate Sankranti holidays:
- Ahmedabad, Gujarat: Experience the vibrant kite festival in the city, with colorful kites filling the sky.
- Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh: Seek blessings at the sacred Tirumala Venkateswara Temple during Sankranti.
- Assam: Immerse yourself in the cultural extravaganza of Magh Bihu celebrations in Assam’s countryside.
- Jaipur, Rajasthan: Witness the spectacular kite-flying contest at Jaipur’s Polo Ground during Sankranti.
- Kolkata, West Bengal: Enjoy the warmth and sweetness of Poush Parbon festivities in the City of Joy.
FAQs about Sankranti Holidays:
-
When is Sankranti celebrated in 2024?
Sankranti will be celebrated on the 14th of January in 2024. -
What is the significance of kite flying during Sankranti?
Kite flying symbolizes reaching out to the Sun God, seeking divine blessings. -
What are some traditional dishes prepared during Sankranti?
Some traditional dishes include pongal, til ke laddoo, undhiyu, and pindi vantalu. -
Is Sankranti only celebrated in India?
No, Sankranti is celebrated in various other countries under different names, such as Thailand (Makha Bucha) and Myanmar (Thingyan). -
What are some common rituals associated with Sankranti?
Rituals include taking a holy dip in rivers, offering prayers to the Sun God, and exchanging gifts and sweets with loved ones.
The Sankranti holidays offer a perfect blend of tradition, culture, spirituality, and festivity. Whether you choose to fly kites in Gujarat, savor Pongal in Tamil Nadu, or dance to the tunes of Bihu in Assam, the celebrations are sure to create lasting memories. So, gear up for the upcoming Sankranti holidays in 2024 and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Indian festivities!