Sweet Treats and Kite Tales on Makar Sankranti in Gujarat
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Synopsis
On January 14, 2025, Gujarat celebrated Makar Sankranti, also called Uttarayan, with vibrant kite flying and traditional foods like Undhiyu and Jalebi. The festival symbolizes the onset of longer days and gratitude towards the Sun God, fostering community spirit and joy.
Key Takeaways
- Makar Sankranti marks the start of longer days.
- Undhiyu and Jalebi are traditional festive dishes.
- Kite flying is a key element of the celebration.
- The festival brings communities together in joy.
- It's a time to express gratitude to the Sun God.
Gandhinagar, Jan 14 (NationPress) Makar Sankranti, popularly known as Uttarayan in Gujarat, ranks among the most anticipated festivals of the year, heralding the arrival of longer days as the Sun begins its northward journey. The festivities on January 14, 2025, united communities in jubilant celebrations, with the skies adorned by vibrant kites and the streets filled with the enticing scent of Undhiyu and Jalebi.
On this special occasion, locals rush to nearby shops from the break of dawn to purchase the quintessential Makar Sankranti delicacies — Undhiyu, a flavorful mixed vegetable dish, and Jalebi, a sugary delight. The atmosphere is charged with joy as families come together to indulge in feasting before heading to the rooftops for kite flying.
Tanuvedi, a local resident, expressed her enthusiasm: "I came here to buy Undhiyu and Jalebi. Undhiyu is a mixed vegetable preparation, and Makar Sankranti feels incomplete without it. After our meal, we will fly kites to keep the festivities alive."
Another resident, Sangita Ben, shared, "Undhiyu and Jalebi hold a special place in our hearts. It’s a cherished tradition, and we eagerly anticipate it every year."
For shopkeepers like Laxman, this season marks the peak of their business.
"Our sales soar during Makar Sankranti. We offer Undhiyu and Jalebi at Rs 320 per kg. Stock is flying off the shelves," he remarked with a grin.
Prakash Kumar, another vendor, elaborated on the significance of Undhiyu: "This is a traditional Gujarati mixed vegetable dish prepared with fresh seasonal produce from the winter harvest. We start making it months prior for Makar Sankranti, as it’s an essential part of the celebration."
Beyond the delectable food and kite-flying fun, Makar Sankranti carries profound meaning. It’s a period to appreciate the harvest season and to show gratitude to Lord Surya, the Sun God, for nurturing life on Earth. The shift to longer days symbolizes fresh starts, optimism, and prosperity for everyone.
As people throughout Gujarat continue to celebrate with family, food, and kites, the essence of Makar Sankranti serves as a powerful reminder of the unity and happiness the festival brings to communities everywhere.
