In one minute
Uttarayan (also spelled Uttaryan) is a harvest festival marking the sun’s transition into Capricorn (Makara), a phase known as Makara Sankranti. It usually falls on January 14 or 15 and signals longer days and the sun’s northward journey (Uttarayana), considered auspicious in Hindu tradition.
A turning point toward light, growth, positivity, and renewal.
The start of a fresh season — intentions, habits, and hope.
Kites, food, charity, and togetherness across regions.
Meaning & timing
Uttarayan marks the sun’s movement into Makara (Capricorn), also known as Makara Sankranti. It typically falls on January 14 or 15 and is seen as the beginning of longer days and the sun’s northward journey (Uttarayana).
Cultural & spiritual significance
The sun begins moving northward — symbolizing light, growth, and positivity.
Uttarayana is viewed as favorable for spiritual practice; actions are believed to bring positive outcomes.
Associated with Lord Surya; the Mahabharata mentions Bhishma Pitamah choosing Uttarayana to leave his body.
How it’s celebrated
Gujarat’s International Kite Festival brings cities like Ahmedabad alive with colorful kites. Rooftops turn into joyful arenas of competitions, music, and community gatherings.
The best part is the togetherness — people gather on terraces, share snacks, and cheer each other on. Even a single kite in the sky feels like a celebration.
Traditional foods
Til (sesame) and jaggery are central — symbolizing warmth and togetherness. Across India, festival plates feature regional favorites.
Sesame-jaggery sweets shared with warmth.
A Gujarati winter favorite packed with flavor.
A Tamil Nadu harvest classic.
Comfort food celebrated in many North Indian homes.
Rituals & charity
Many observe holy dips in rivers like the Ganga, Godavari, and Kaveri.
Donating food, clothes, and money — especially sesame and grains — is seen as highly meritorious.
Regional names across India
Different states celebrate the same seasonal shift with distinct names and traditions:
- Gujarat: Uttarayan
- Maharashtra: Makar Sankranti
- Tamil Nadu: Pongal (4-day harvest festival)
- Punjab: Lohri (night before)
- Assam: Magh Bihu
- Karnataka / Andhra / Telangana: Sankranti
Why it matters today
Uttarayan connects agriculture, astronomy, community, and spirituality — reminding us of harmony between humans and nature. Even with modern lifestyles, it remains widely celebrated across regions and religions.
A simple Sankranti intention
Choose one good change (a habit, a mindset, a kinder way of speaking) and one good beginning (a fresh plan you can actually follow). Small steps, steady progress.