Makar Sankranti Celebrations in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh

Makar Sankranti Celebrations in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh

Makar Sankranti, one of the most significant Hindu festivals, is celebrated with great enthusiasm and diverse traditions across India. In the states of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, this festival takes on unique cultural expressions, reflecting the region’s rich heritage and agricultural practices. Makar Sankranti marks the end of the winter solstice and the arrival of longer days, symbolising the transition from darkness to light and the beginning of the harvest season. This festival, known as Sankranti in both states, is a time for gratitude, renewal, and joyous celebrations.

Historical and Cultural Significance

In Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, Makar Sankranti is deeply rooted in the agricultural calendar. The festival marks the beginning of the harvest season when farmers reap the benefits of their hard work. It is a time to thank the deities for a bountiful harvest and to pray for future prosperity. The sun’s entry into the Capricorn sign (Makara) is considered highly auspicious, symbolising a new beginning and the spread of knowledge and light.

The cultural significance of Sankranti in these states is also reflected in the various myths and legends associated with the festival. It is believed that on this day, the sun god, Surya, visits his son Shani, marking a period of harmony and peace. This mythological context emphasises the importance of familial bonds and respect for elders, themes that are central to the celebrations.

Preparations and Decorations

Preparations for Makar Sankranti in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh begin well in advance. Homes are cleaned and decorated with vibrant rangoli (colourful floor designs) made from rice flour, coloured powders, and flower petals. These intricate patterns, known as muggulu in Andhra Pradesh and rangoli in Karnataka, are a symbol of welcoming prosperity and positivity into the home.

In rural areas, homes are often adorned with marigold flowers, mango leaves, and sugarcane stalks, which are considered auspicious. The entrances are decorated with colourful kites and traditional lamps, creating a festive atmosphere. People also purchase new clothes and prepare special foods for the festival.

Rituals and Traditions

Bhogi

The celebrations in both states begin with Bhogi, the day before Makar Sankranti.

Bhogi is a day dedicated to discarding old belongings and bringing in new items, symbolising a fresh start. In the early hours of the morning, people light bonfires using old wooden furniture and agricultural waste. This ritual signifies the destruction of old, unwanted habits and things, making way for new beginnings.

On Bhogi, people also clean their homes thoroughly and decorate them with rangoli. In Andhra Pradesh, children sing traditional Bhogi songs while dancing around the bonfire, adding a lively and joyful element to the occasion.

Sankranti

The main day of the festival, Sankranti, is marked by a series of rituals and community activities. In Karnataka, people wake up early and take a ritualistic bath, wearing new clothes. They then offer prayers to the sun god, Surya, seeking his blessings for prosperity and well-being. Special pujas (worship rituals) are conducted in homes and temples, with offerings of freshly harvested grains, fruits, and sweets.

In Andhra Pradesh, a significant ritual is the exchange of sesame seeds and jaggery, known as ellu-bella in Kannada and nuvvulu-bellam in Telugu. This practice symbolises the bonding of relationships and the sweetening of conversations. People visit friends and relatives, exchanging these sweets along with the greeting, "Ellu bella thindu, olle maathadi" (Eat sesame and jaggery, speak good words).

Kanuma and Mukkanuma

In Andhra Pradesh, the day after Sankranti is celebrated as Kanuma, which is dedicated to cattle, recognising their contribution to agriculture. Farmers bathe and decorate their cattle with colourful paints, garlands, and bells. Cattle races and other traditional games are organised, showcasing the deep connection between farmers and their livestock.

Following Kanuma is Mukkanuma, a day marked by community feasts and social gatherings. People prepare special dishes using the new harvest and share meals with family and friends. Traditional folk dances and music performances are held, adding to the festive spirit.

Decorated Bulls and Harvest Displays

A unique feature of Sankranti celebrations in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh is the procession of decorated bulls and harvest displays. In villages, farmers parade their beautifully adorned bulls through the streets, accompanied by drummers and dancers. These processions are a visual spectacle, highlighting the importance of cattle in agricultural life.

Harvest displays, showcasing various crops and agricultural produce, are set up in public spaces. These displays not only celebrate the abundance of the harvest but also serve as a tribute to the hard work of the farming community.

Festive Foods

Food plays a central role in Makar Sankranti celebrations in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. Traditional dishes made from newly harvested crops and ingredients like sesame seeds, jaggery, rice, and lentils are