Uttarayan

Uttarayan is one of the most vibrant and joyous festivals celebrated in India, especially in the state of Gujarat, where it is observed with great enthusiasm. It marks the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makara Rashi), an event known as Makar Sankranti, which usually falls on 14th January every year. The word “Uttarayan” literally means the northward movement of the Sun, symbolizing longer days, the end of winter, and the arrival of the harvest season.

In Gujarat, Uttarayan is primarily celebrated as the festival of kites. From early morning till late evening, the skies are filled with colorful kites of various shapes and sizes. Children, youth, and elders participate with equal excitement, trying to outdo each other in kite-flying battles, shouting “Kai Po Che!” when they cut the opponent’s kite. Special threads coated with powdered glass, known as manjha, are used for kite competitions, though in recent years eco-friendly alternatives are being encouraged to avoid harm to birds.

Apart from Gujarat, the festival is celebrated across India under different names—Makar Sankranti in most states, Pongal in Tamil Nadu, Lohri in Punjab, and Bhogali Bihu in Assam. Despite regional differences, the underlying theme is the same—gratitude to the Sun God and nature for a good harvest. It is considered an auspicious time for new beginnings, charity, and religious rituals. Many people take holy dips in rivers like the Ganga, Yamuna, and Godavari, believing it purifies the soul and washes away sins.

Food plays an important role in Uttarayan festivities. Traditional delicacies such as undhiyu (a mixed vegetable dish), chikki (made from sesame seeds and jaggery), and sweets prepared from peanuts, til, and jaggery are enjoyed with family and friends. These foods are not only delicious but also provide warmth and energy during the winter season.

The festival also carries a spiritual meaning. According to Hindu beliefs, the period of Uttarayan is considered highly sacred. It is said that great souls choose this time to leave their mortal bodies, as it is believed to lead them to liberation (moksha). The Mahabharata mentions that Bhishma Pitamah waited for Uttarayan to leave his body on the battlefield of Kurukshetra.

Thus, Uttarayan is not just about kite flying but also a celebration of nature, harvest, gratitude, and spirituality. It unites people of all ages, breaks barriers of caste and creed, and spreads joy in the community. The colorful skies during Uttarayan symbolize hope, prosperity, and the spirit of togetherness.

The festival is most famous for kite flying. From morning to evening, the sky is filled with bright, colorful kites of all shapes and sizes. People engage in friendly competitions, trying to cut each other’s kites while shouting “Kai Po Che!” Families and communities gather on rooftops, creating an atmosphere of excitement and celebration.

Food plays a vital role in Uttarayan. Traditional dishes like undhiyu, jalebi, sesame and jaggery sweets (til-gud), and peanut brittle (chikki) are prepared and enjoyed. These dishes not only taste delicious but also provide warmth and energy during winter.

The festival is celebrated across India under different names: Pongal in Tamil Nadu, Lohri in Punjab, and Bhogali Bihu in Assam. Though the forms differ, the essence is the same—thankfulness to nature and the Sun God for prosperity.

Spiritually, Uttarayan is considered auspicious. Hindu texts state that souls attaining death during this period achieve liberation (moksha).

Thus, Uttarayan is not only about kites but also about harvest, gratitude, and joy, uniting people under colorful skies.