Makar Sankranti 2026: Colors of celebration change on this day in India from North to South, know interesting stories here

Makar Sankranti Celebrations: Makar Sankranti is not just a religious festival but it is a celebration of the cultural and linguistic diversity of India. The festival of Makar Sankranti is celebrated in different forms all over the country when the sun sets. Diversity can also be seen in dishes and traditions with different names.

At some places kite flying is done in the sky and at other places charity is done by taking a dip in holy rivers. A wonderful mix of different colors and traditions of India can be seen on this day.

North India: Festival of Khichdi and Daan

In Uttar Pradesh and Bihar it is mainly known as Khichdi. Bathing in Ganga on this day has special significance. People take a dip in the holy river in the morning and then donate rice, pulses, jaggery and sesame seeds. Dahi-chuda and khichdi are enjoyed in food.

Gujarat and Rajasthan: Uttarayan and kite flying

The splendor of this day in Gujarat is worth seeing. It is called Uttarayan here. International Kite Festival is organized and the entire sky is filled with colorful kites. On this day in Rajasthan, married women give bayana and sesame laddus are distributed.

Also read:- Makar Sankranti 2026: Perfect way to make Khichdi as fragrant as mother’s hands, even neighbors will ask for the recipe.

Punjab and Haryana: Lohri and Maghi

‘Lohri’ celebrated in Punjab a day before Makar Sankranti Is celebrated. People light a fire and offer sesame seeds, rewari and peanuts in it. The day of Sankranti is called Maghi here where people go to Gurudwaras and perform seva and ardas.

South India: The joy of Pongal

In Tamil Nadu this festival is celebrated as Pongal for four days. A special dish (Sugar Pongal) is made from new rice and milk. It is mainly a festival of farmers in which nature and cattle (bulls/cows) are worshipped.

Assam: Bhogali Bihu

In Assam it is called Magh Bihu or Bhogali Bihu. People burn bonfires in the fields and enjoy traditional dances and feasts.

West Bengal: Paush Sankranti

In West Bengal this festival is called Paush Sankranti. On this day people go to take bath in Gangasagar. In homes, dishes like Patisapata and Pitha are made from milk, rice and date jaggery.

Makar Sankranti teaches us to express gratitude towards nature. Despite different names and different customs, this festival unites the entire country in the thread of peace, prosperity and brotherhood.