Makar Sankranti Celebrations in Ranchi: Harvest Festival Traditions and Community Spirit

Ranchi: Makar Sankranti was celebrated across Ranchi with warmth, prayers and the aroma of seasonal delicacies, as communities marked the harvest festival in their own distinctive ways while sharing a common spirit of gratitude and renewal. From early morning, rooftops, courtyards and places of worship reflected the spirit of thanksgiving and new beginnings.The day began with traditional rituals in many households, with families offering prayers to the Sun God and preparing delicacies with sesame, rice, and jaggery. “Makar Sankranti is about gratitude and togetherness. We start the day quietly with puja and spend time with family,” said Rakesh Kumar, a resident of HarmuThe city remained calm and reflective through the morning, with people opting for home celebrations. As the day progressed, rooftops and open terraces came alive with colourful kites, especially in residential pockets such as Harmu, Doranda and Lalpur. Children and youngsters were seen engaged in friendly kite-flying battles, adding a playful rhythm to the otherwise laid-back festival mood.Bengali families across Ranchi observed Poush Sankranti, preparing an array of homemade pithe-puli and payesh using new rice. Kitchens turned into social spaces as families came together to cook and share food. “Making pithe is a collective effort. It brings generations together and keeps our traditions alive,” said Ananya Chatterjee from BariatuTelugu households marked the festive period with Bhogi celebrations, marking the first of the four day celebrations. Homes were decorated with rangoli, and families prepared traditional dishes while offering the first harvest rice in prayers to Surya. “Sankranti reminds us of our agrarian roots. Even in a city like Ranchi, we follow the rituals with devotion,” said K. Srinivas, a resident of LalpurMalayali families celebrated the harvest spirit through Makara Vilakku observances, offering prayers and preparing festive meals at home. Besides, Assamese households observed Magh or Bhogali Bihu.