Makar Sankranti

Makar Sankranti is an important Hindu festival that marks the Sun's transition into Capricorn, known as Makara Rashi in Hindu astrology. Celebrated in January, the festival is associated with seasonal change, the harvest period and the beginning of a new phase in the solar calendar.

Across Odisha, Makar Sankranti is observed with traditional customs, religious rituals and festive meals. Devotees offer prayers, visit temples and participate in charitable activities as expressions of gratitude and devotion. Holy dips in rivers and other sacred water bodies are also associated with the festival.

Traditional foods form an important part of the celebrations. In Odisha, people prepare special dishes using newly harvested rice, sesame seeds, jaggery, coconut and other locally available ingredients. Makara Chaula, a traditional preparation made with uncooked newly harvested rice, banana, coconut, jaggery and other ingredients, is associated with the occasion in many Odia households.

The festival reflects Odisha's agricultural heritage, religious traditions and close connection with seasonal cycles. While customs vary between communities and regions, Makar Sankranti is widely observed as a day of gratitude, generosity, spiritual reflection and family gatherings.

Makar Sankranti offers visitors an opportunity to experience Odisha's traditional food culture, temple customs and harvest-related celebrations.