Makar Sankranti in Karnataka: A Culinary Celebration of Tradition

Makar Sankranti in Karnataka: A Culinary Celebration of Tradition

Makar Sankranti, one of the most celebrated festivals in Karnataka, marks the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makara) and the end of the winter solstice. This festival heralds the beginning of longer days and is synonymous with the harvest season. It is a time of gratitude, joy, and togetherness, where families come together to celebrate with traditional rituals, kite flying, and most importantly, an array of delicious and symbolic culinary delights. The traditional dishes prepared during Makar Sankranti in Karnataka not only satisfy the taste buds but also embody the cultural and agricultural richness of the region.

Ellu-Bella: A Symbol of Sweetness and Unity

One of the most iconic and significant foods associated with Makar Sankranti in Karnataka is  Ellu-Bella. This dish is a mixture of roasted sesame seeds (ellu), jaggery (bella), peanuts, dried coconut pieces, and sometimes roasted gram. Each ingredient in Ellu-Bella is carefully prepared, chopped into small, uniform pieces, and mixed together to create a harmonious blend of flavours and textures.

Ellu-Bella is more than just a snack; it is a symbol of togetherness and the spirit of sharing. During Makar Sankranti, it is customary to exchange Ellu-Bella with neighbours, friends, and relatives along with the phrase “Ellu Bella Thindu Olle Maathadi,” meaning “Eat this mixture of sesame seeds and jaggery and speak good words.” This tradition underscores the importance of harmony, sweetness, and unity in relationships.

 2 Sakkare Acchu: Intricate Sugar Figurines

Sakkare Acchu are beautifully crafted sugar figurines that are unique to the Makar Sankranti celebrations in Karnataka. These figurines are made using moulds and are crafted from sugar syrup that is boiled to a thick consistency before being poured into the moulds to set. The shapes can vary from simple geometric patterns to intricate designs resembling animals, flowers, and traditional symbols.

The process of making Sakkare Acchu is delicate and requires skill and patience. These sugar figurines are often exchanged along with Ellu-Bella, symbolising purity and sweetness. They are particularly popular among children, who delight in the vibrant shapes and designs.

 3 Yellu Unde: Nutritious Sesame Laddus

**Yellu Unde** or sesame laddus are another traditional delicacy prepared during Makar Sankranti in Karnataka. These laddus are made by combining roasted sesame seeds with melted jaggery, and sometimes peanuts or dried coconut are added to enhance the flavour and texture. The mixture is shaped into small, round balls while still warm.

Sesame seeds are known for their health benefits, particularly during the winter months, as they provide warmth and energy. The combination of sesame seeds and jaggery is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Yellu Unde is a popular festive treat that is both satisfying and wholesome.

 4. Kajjaya: Crispy Rice Flour and Jaggery Fritters

Kajjaya, also known as Adhirasam in other South Indian states, is a traditional sweet fritter made from rice flour and jaggery. The preparation of Kajjaya involves soaking raw rice, grinding it into a fine flour, and then mixing it with thick jaggery syrup flavoured with cardamom. This dough is shaped into small discs and deep-fried until golden brown and crisp.

Kajjaya has a unique texture, with a slightly crispy exterior and a soft, chewy interior. The rich taste of jaggery and the aroma of cardamom make it a favourite during Makar Sankranti. It is a delightful treat that is enjoyed by everyone, from children to elders.

5. Obbattu/Holige: Sweet Lentil-Stuffed Flatbread

Obbattu, also known as Holige or Puran Poli, is a popular festive dish in Karnataka, often prepared during Makar Sankranti. It is a sweet flatbread made by stuffing a dough of maida (refined flour) with a mixture of cooked chana dal (split chickpeas) and jaggery.

The filling is flavoured with cardamom, giving it a fragrant aroma.

The dough is rolled out, stuffed with the sweet filling, and then cooked on a griddle with a generous amount of ghee. The result is a soft, golden-brown flatbread that is rich and flavourful. Obbattu is usually served with ghee or warm milk and is a favourite in festive meals.

6. Puliyogare Tangy Tamarind Rice

While sweets are the highlight of Makar Sankranti, savoury dishes like **Puliyogare** are also an integral part of the festive menu. Puliyogare is a tangy and spicy rice dish made with tamarind paste, a blend of spices, and roasted peanuts. The rice is cooked separately and then mixed with the tamarind paste to ensure that each grain is coated with the flavourful mixture.

Puliyogare is often prepared in large quantities during Makar Sankranti and is offered to guests as a part of the festive meal. It is a dish that balances the sweetness of the festival with its rich, tangy flavours, and it is loved by people across Karnataka.

7 Kesari Bath Fragrant Sweet Semolina

Kesari Bath is a traditional sweet dish made from semolina (sooji), sugar, ghee, and flavoured with saffron or food colouring. The dish is garnished with cashews and raisins, adding to its richness. The name "Kesari" refers to the saffron (kesar) that gives the dish its vibrant yellow colour.

Kesari Bath has a smooth, melt-in-the-mouth texture and is often served as a dessert in festive meals. It is quick to prepare and is enjoyed by everyone for its simplicity and delightful taste.

The aroma of saffron and ghee makes it an irresistible part of the Makar Sankranti feast.

8 Avarekalu Huli Traditional Field Bean Curry

During Makar Sankranti, it is common to prepare dishes that celebrate the harvest. **Avarekalu Huli** is a traditional Karnataka curry made from fresh field beans (avarekalu), which are abundant during this season. The beans are cooked with a blend of spices, tamarind, and coconut, resulting in a thick, tangy, and flavourful curry.

Avarekalu Huli is typically served with rice or flatbreads and is a hearty dish that reflects the agricultural abundance of Karnataka. The use of fresh, seasonal produce in this dish makes it a fitting tribute to the harvest festival of Makar Sankranti.

#### Conclusion

Makar Sankranti in Karnataka is not just a celebration of the harvest and the Sun's transition; it is a festival that brings families and communities together through food. The traditional dishes prepared during this time, from the sweet and symbolic Ellu-Bella to the savoury delights like Puliyogare and Avarekalu Huli, are a testament to the region's rich culinary heritage. These dishes are not only delicious but also carry cultural and symbolic meanings that have been passed down through generations. As Karnataka celebrates Makar Sankranti, the food serves as a reminder of the importance of tradition, togetherness, and the bounty of nature.