Sankranti Across India: A Festival That Unites the Nation

Sankranti is one of India’s most widely celebrated festivals, deeply rooted in agriculture, tradition, and gratitude. Observed when the Sun enters the zodiac sign of Makara (Capricorn), Sankranti marks the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer days. Across India, the festival is celebrated under different names, customs, and rituals, yet its essence remains the same — thanksgiving to nature, respect for farmers, and hope for prosperity.

Unlike many Indian festivals that follow the lunar calendar, Sankranti is based on the solar calendar, making it one of the most scientifically significant festivals in the country. It is a celebration of harvest, renewal, and cultural unity.

Telangana: The Heart of Rural Traditions

In Telangana, Sankranti is celebrated as Pedda Panduga, a grand four-day festival that reflects the soul of village life.

• Bhogi marks the beginning, where old and unused items are discarded and bonfires are lit, symbolizing the removal of negativity and the welcoming of new beginnings.
• Sankranti Day is the main festival. Homes are cleaned and decorated with colorful muggu (rangoli). Families wear new clothes, prepare traditional dishes, and offer prayers to the Sun God.
• Kanuma is dedicated to farmers and cattle, honoring the animals that play a vital role in agriculture.
• Mukkanuma brings community feasts, village gatherings, and cultural celebrations.

Sankranti in Telangana highlights agrarian values, family bonds, and gratitude toward nature.

Andhra Pradesh: A Festival of Togetherness

In Andhra Pradesh, Sankranti is celebrated with equal enthusiasm and cultural richness. Villages and towns come alive with rangoli designs, festive decorations, and traditional foods. Farmers thank nature for a successful harvest, and families reunite to celebrate the season of abundance.

Tamil Nadu: Pongal – A Thanksgiving to Nature

In Tamil Nadu, Sankranti is known as Pongal and is celebrated over four days.

• Bhogi Pongal focuses on renewal.
• Thai Pongal involves cooking freshly harvested rice with milk and jaggery, offered to the Sun God.
• Mattu Pongal honors cattle.
• Kaanum Pongal is a day for family outings.

Pongal reflects harmony between humans, animals, and nature.

Karnataka: Sweetness and Harmony

In Karnataka, Makara Sankranti is marked by the exchange of ellu-bella (sesame seeds, jaggery, peanuts, and coconut). The tradition promotes harmony and goodwill. Kite flying and temple visits add to the festive spirit.

Kerala: Spiritual Significance

In Kerala, Sankranti is associated with Makara Vilakku, linked to the Sabarimala pilgrimage. Thousands of devotees gather to witness the sacred event, making it spiritually significant rather than agrarian.

North India: Warmth and Celebration

• Punjab and Haryana celebrate Lohri, with bonfires, folk songs, and dances marking the end of winter.
• Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Delhi observe Khichdi Sankranti, where devotees take holy dips in rivers and donate food to the needy.

West India: Colors in the Sky

• Gujarat hosts the famous International Kite Festival, attracting participants from around the world.
• Maharashtra celebrates with the exchange of til-gul, spreading the message of sweetness and unity.
• Rajasthan enjoys kite flying and festive meals.
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East and North-East India: Cultural Diversity

• Assam celebrates Magh Bihu, marking the end of the harvest season with feasts and community gatherings.
• West Bengal observes Poush Sankranti, known for traditional sweets and fairs.
• Odisha marks the festival with temple rituals and offerings.

One Festival, One Nation

From Telangana’s Pedda Panduga to Tamil Nadu’s Pongal, from Punjab’s Lohri to Assam’s Magh Bihu, Sankranti reflects India’s unity in diversity. It is a festival that transcends regions, languages, and customs, binding the nation through gratitude, culture, and shared values.

Sankranti is not just a harvest festival — it is a celebration of India’s roots, resilience, and respect for nature.