Makar Sankranti 2026: A Festival of Harvest, Sunshine, Food & Togetherness

Makar Sankranti is one of the most joyful and meaningful festivals celebrated across India and many parts of the world. Unlike most Indian festivals that follow the lunar calendar, Makar Sankranti is based on the solar cycle and usually falls on January 14 every year. It marks the day when the Sun enters the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makara), beginning its northward journey known as Uttarayan.

This transition symbolizes the end of winter, the start of longer days, and the promise of warmth, growth, and new beginnings. For centuries, this day has been associated with harvest, gratitude, and community bonding.

Why Makar Sankranti Is So Significant

1. A Solar Milestone

Makar Sankranti celebrates the Sun’s movement into Capricorn. In Indian tradition, this shift is considered highly auspicious. The northward movement of the Sun is associated with positive energy, clarity, and progress. It is believed to be an ideal time to begin new ventures and set fresh intentions.

2. A Harvest Festival

For farming communities, Makar Sankranti marks the harvest of winter crops. It is a time to thank nature for abundance and to celebrate the fruits of hard work. Across regions, people express gratitude to the Sun, the soil, and the seasons that sustain life.

3. Togetherness and Sweetness

One of the most beautiful aspects of this festival is its focus on harmony and goodwill. In Maharashtra, people exchange sesame and jaggery sweets with the words, “Til-gul ghya, goad goad bola,” which means, “Take these sweets and speak sweetly.” The message is simple yet powerful: let the year ahead be filled with kindness and warmth.

Makar Sankranti Across India and the World

What makes Makar Sankranti truly special is how it takes on different names and flavors across regions, while preserving the same core spirit of harvest and renewal.

• Gujarat – Uttarayan: Famous for its vibrant kite-flying festivals that fill the sky with color.
• Tamil Nadu – Pongal: A four-day harvest celebration centered around freshly cooked rice dishes.
• Punjab – Lohri: Marked by bonfires, music, and dance, celebrating the end of winter.
• Assam – Magh Bihu: Known for community feasts and traditional games.
• Bihar & Uttar Pradesh – Khichdi: Families prepare and share nourishing khichdi.
• West Bengal – Poush Sankranti: Celebrated with ritual baths and seasonal sweets.
• Nepal – Maghe Sankranti: Observed with sacred river baths and special foods.

Beyond India, similar solar festivals are celebrated in countries like Thailand (Songkran) and Myanmar (Thingyan), reflecting the universal importance of seasonal change and renewal.

Food at the Heart of Sankranti

Food is central to Makar Sankranti celebrations. Traditional dishes are prepared using seasonal ingredients that provide warmth and nourishment during winter.

• Til (sesame) and jaggery sweets that symbolize warmth and sweetness
• Khichdi, a wholesome combination of rice and lentils
• Til laddoos made with sesame, jaggery, peanuts, and spices

These dishes are not just festive treats; they carry cultural meaning and promote health during colder months.

This Friday’s Makar Sankranti Special at Delish Meals

At Delish Meals, we are bringing the festive spirit straight to your table.

Friday Special: Undhiyu and Poori Combo

Celebrate Makar Sankranti with an authentic Gujarati favorite. Our Undhiyu is a rich, slow-cooked mixed vegetable delicacy infused with traditional spices, paired with soft and golden poori. It is the perfect way to experience the flavors of Uttarayan right at home.

Prepared with fresh ingredients and home-style care, this festive combo is ideal for sharing with family and loved ones.

Explore our Makar Sankranti Friday Specials here

A Festival of Light, Food and New Beginnings

Makar Sankranti is more than a date on the calendar. It is a celebration of:

• The Sun’s journey and new beginnings
• Harvest and gratitude
• Family, friends, and togetherness
• Wholesome, meaningful food

From colorful kites in the sky to sweet sesame treats on the plate, this festival brings warmth even in the heart of winter.

May this Makar Sankranti bring longer days, brighter smiles, and delicious moments to your home.