Best places to witness Makar Sankranti in India
Makar Sankranti is among the first few festivals in the country that are celebrated at the beginning of the year. Traditionally, this celebration heralds the end of winter and the start of longer days. The festival is commemorated in honor of the Sun god. It is celebrated with kite flying, traditional sweets, and cultural festivities. Wish to witness major celebrations? Visit these places.
Ganga Sagar, West Bengal
During Makar Sankranti, Ganga Sagar, which is situated at the meeting point of the Ganga River and the Bay of Bengal, serves as a spiritual center. At the confluence, throngs of pilgrims assemble to partake in a sacred plunge. The lively beats of traditional folk music create an enchanting cultural ambiance, adding vibrancy to the celebrations at the sacred confluence of Ganga Sagar.
Ahmedabad, Gujarat
Gujarat is well known for its lavish Uttarayan or the kite festival during Makar Sankranti. Ahmedabad in particular holds one of the biggest kite festivities globally. Thousands of people take part in friendly kite-flying contests where brightly colored kites of all sizes and shapes fill the sky. Other cities like Vadodara and Surat are also famous for their vibrant kite-flying celebrations.
Haridwar, Uttarakhand
The city of Haridwar becomes a mesmerizing spectacle during Makar Sankranti. Rituals and prayers are performed by devotees, resulting in a peaceful fusion of spirituality and cultural expressions. They take a dip in the sacred Ganges River to obtain God's blessings. It is a genuinely enlightening experience as the sound of hymns fills the air and lively cultural acts take over the riverfront.
Mysore, Karnataka
Makar Sankranti is much anticipated in Mysore, especially for the ellu-bella tradition. The city celebrates the festival with traditional fervor. Almost every household partakes in preparing ellu-bella, which is made of jaggery, peanuts, and sesame seeds. Women and children dressed in traditional attires visit the temples in the morning and distribute ellu-bella to friends, neighbors, and relatives in the evening
Rajasthan
Another best place to be during the festival in Rajasthan. The entire state of Rajasthan becomes a vibrant canvas during Makar Sankranti. Traditional music fills the air, and colorful kites soar across the skies during friendly competitions. Take a stroll through the markets as they become a visual feast when they are decorated with a rainbow of colorful kites.
