Makar Sankranti 2025: India welcomes the sun’s journey with festivities and hope

Makar Sankranti symbolises the Sun's northward journey (Uttarayana) and fills the skies with colourful kites from around the world. The International kite festival 2025 in Ahmedabad, inaugurated by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on January 11, showcased vibrant celebrations.

(Image credit: PTI)

Union home minister Amit Shah flying a kite as Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel looks on, during festival celebrations, in Gujarat. This astronomical event symbolises light conquering darkness, renewal, and fresh beginnings, making it an auspicious period for prosperity and positivity in Indian culture.

(Image credit: PTI)

​People visit 'Jal Mahal Paal' during the kite festival on Makar Sankranti, in Jaipur. In Gujarat and Rajasthan, colourful kite flying dominates the celebrations, filling the skies with joy and energy. The ascent of kites symbolises freedom and elevation of spirit, while families enjoy traditional dishes like undhiyu and sesame-jaggery sweets during the festival.

(Image credit: PTI)​

​MoS Defence Sanjay Seth flying a kite during a celebration programme 'Namo Patang Mahotsav' ahead of the Makar Sankranti. The festival celebrates the end of the harvest season and gratitude to the land, Sun, and nature. Farmers thank the Earth for its blessings and prepare for a new cycle by sowing seeds, signifying growth, renewal, and hope for the coming year.

(Image credit: ANI)

An enthusiast during the Kite Festival on the eve of the festival in Secunderabad. Makar Sankranti carries rich mythology, including stories of reconciliation between Lord Shani and the Sun God, King Bhagiratha bringing the Ganga to Earth, and Lord Vishnu’s victory over demons.

(Image credit: PTI)

The International kite festival 2025 in Hyderabad, held from January 13 to 15 at the Parade Grounds in Secunderabad, celebrated Sankranti with vibrant kites and cultural festivities. With more than 20 countries participating and 15 lakh visitors, it served as a spectacular blend of art, tradition, and community joy.

(Image credit: ANI)

In Tamil Nadu, Makar Sankranti is celebrated as Pongal, a four-day festival thanking the Sun God, Earth, and cattle. Homes are adorned with intricate kolam designs, and families prepare the special Pongal dish to honour prosperity and the cycle of nature.

(Image credit: AP)

NCC cadets pose for a picture holding kites in their hands during the Lohri festival celebration, in Amritsar. In Punjab the festival is celebrated a day before, as Lohri. Bonfires, traditional dances like Bhangra and Gidda, and sharing sweets made of jaggery and sesame create a joyful atmosphere, symbolising unity, warmth, and gratitude for a bountiful harvest.

(Image credit: ANI)

Makar Sankranti represents a journey of enlightenment as the Sun moves northward. The festival encourages self-reflection, renewal, and letting go of past negativity. It’s a day for spiritual cleansing and welcoming positivity and light into one’s life.

(Image credit: AP)

Students posing for photos with an 18x12 feet kite themed on 'Mahakumbha' on the eve of Makar Sankranti festival in Nagpur. Beyond rituals, Makar Sankranti is about unity and thanksgiving. Families gather to prepare festive meals, exchange gifts, and participate in cultural activities. It strengthens relationships, fosters harmony, and reminds communities to walk hand in hand into a promising future.

(Image credit: PTI)