Makar Sankranti is celebrated across India with diverse regional customs, marking the sun's transition into Capricorn and the harvest season. This astronomical shift is considered highly auspicious, as it signifies renewal, prosperity, and a fresh start.
In Punjab, it's Lohri with bonfires and dances; in Tamil Nadu, it's Pongal, a thanksgiving festival with sweet rice offerings. Assam celebrates Magh Bihu with feasts and games, while West Bengal marks Poush Sankranti with Ganga Sagar Mela. In Maharashtra, til-gud (sesame-jaggery) sweets are exchanged, symbolising harmony. Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh honour cattle and harvest rituals. This pan-Indian festival unites the country in gratitude, joy, and reverence for nature and its cycles.
Gujarat celebrates Makar Sankranti also known as Uttarayan with kite flying and it is one of the most eagerly awaited festivals in the state. The festival is celebrated with immense enthusiasm over two days—Uttarayan on January 14 and Vasi Uttarayan on January 15.. People of all ages gather on rooftops to fly colourful kites, engaging in friendly competitions as the sky becomes a kaleidoscope of vibrant hues.
Makar Sankranti is also a time for social bonding and gratitude. Families come together to celebrate, share special foods, and exchange gifts. The festival emphasises generosity, with donations to the needy being a significant practice. Rooted in tradition and joy, Uttarayan in Gujarat embodies the spirit of community, cultural pride, and the celebration of nature’s cycles.
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Makar Sankranti in Gujarat is a celebration of joy, tradition, and flavours. From the hearty Undhiyu to the sweet Til Chikki and Jalebi, each dish adds its unique charm to the festivities. These culinary delights not only nourish the body but also embody the spirit of the festival, making Uttarayan a memorable experience for all. Whether you're flying kites or enjoying the warmth of family gatherings, these dishes are sure to make your Sankranti celebrations special.
The dishes prepared during Sankranti in Gujarat not only delight the taste buds but also reflect the cultural and seasonal essence of the festival. Ingredients like sesame seeds and jaggery are rich in nutrients and are believed to generate warmth, making them ideal for winter. These dishes are often shared with family, friends, and neighbours, fostering a sense of community and togetherness.
Undhiyu
Undhiyu is the quintessential Gujarati winter delicacy, specially prepared during Uttarayan. This slow-cooked, mixed vegetable curry features seasonal produce like purple yam, sweet potatoes, green beans, and eggplant, along with fenugreek dumplings (methi muthiyas). The dish is flavoured with a blend of spices, coriander, and coconut. Served with puris or soft rotis, Undhiyu is a wholesome and hearty dish that symbolises the warmth of the festival.
Til Chikki
Til Chikki is a classic Sankranti sweet made with sesame seeds (til) and jaggery (gur). The combination of these ingredients not only offers a delightful crunch but also provides warmth and energy during the winter season. The mixture is cooked to perfection, spread thin, and cut into squares or rectangles. Til Chikki is a must-have treat during kite flying, offering a quick boost of energy.
Jalebi
Though Jalebi is enjoyed year-round, it holds a special place during Uttarayan. The crispy, deep-fried spirals soaked in saffron-flavored sugar syrup are a favorite among Gujaratis. Often paired with Fafda (a savoury snack), Jalebi adds a sweet note to the festivities. Its golden hue complements the vibrant kites dotting the sky, making it a symbolic dish of joy and celebration.
Mamra Ladoo
Mamra Ladoo, or puffed rice balls, is another Sankranti favourite. Made by binding puffed rice with jaggery syrup, these ladoos are light, crispy, and easy to carry during kite-flying sessions. They are not only delicious but also nutritious, providing a perfect balance of energy and flavour for day-long celebrations.
Khichdo
Khichdo is a comforting and mildly sweet dish made from coarsely ground wheat, milk, ghee, and sugar. Often garnished with nuts and dried fruits, it is a Sankranti staple in many Gujarati households. The creamy texture and subtle sweetness of Khichdo make it a delightful dessert to enjoy after a hearty meal.
Fada Ni Lapsi
Fada Ni Lapsi is a traditional Gujarati dessert made from broken wheat (daliya), jaggery, and ghee. This dish is not only delicious but also symbolizes auspicious beginnings, making it perfect for Sankranti. Slow-cooked to perfection, Fada Lapsi is often garnished with cardamom and nuts, adding a rich and aromatic touch.
Gujarati Kadhi
Gujarati Kadhi is a light, yoghurt-based curry tempered with spices like mustard seeds, curry leaves, and asafoetida. While it is a year-round dish, it pairs exceptionally well with the rich and flavourful Undhiyu during Sankranti. The tangy and slightly sweet flavours of the Kadhi balance the spiciness of other dishes, creating a harmonious festive meal.