It's time to decorate the skies with dazzling pink, yellow, and red kites. It's time to say good-bye to the ice-cold winter days and hello to the upcoming warmer ones. Makar Sankranti, one of the country's largest festivals, is approaching. You guessed it. Makar Sankranti falls on January 14, 2023, this year. According to astrology, Makar Sankranti commemorates the Sun's entry into Capricorn, also known as Makar in Sanskrit, which heralds the start of longer days with enough of sunlight for crops. For a country like India that depends heavily on agriculture, the harvest celebration is crucial. Because of this, Makar Sankranti is observed across the nation, naturally with many regional and local customs. Like all Indian holidays, Makar Sankranti celebrations centre heavily on food. A foodie's paradise, Makar Sankranti treats range from ghee-rich treats like chikki and gajak to mouthwatering savouries like khichdi.It is a festival that is fervently and enthusiastically observed throughout Nepal and India. The preparation and consumption of traditional meals is one of the festival's most famous features.
Tilgul
Makar Sankranti celebration wouldn't be complete without tilgul, a dessert consisting of sesame seeds and jaggery. As a sign of friendship and affection, it is frequently drunk throughout the celebration. It is said that the components used to manufacture tilgul provide a number of health advantages. The minerals calcium, iron, and magnesium are abundant in sesame seeds, while iron, calcium, and potassium are abundant in jaggery, a natural sweetener.
Gudpapdi
Another well-liked traditional dish enjoyed during Makar Sankranti is gudpapdi. The ingredients for this dessert are whole wheat flour, ghee, and jaggery. The dough is divided into little squares or diamonds, which are then thinly rolled out and deep-fried in ghee until crisp and golden brown. People of all ages love the tasty and nutritious snack known as gudpapdi.
Pitha
In the eastern states of India, pitha is a type of customary cake that is made during Makar Sankranti. It is typically filled with coconut or other sweet fillings and is produced with a blend of rice flour and jaggery. People of all ages love pitha, a delicious sweet dish that is a staple of the Makar Sankranti celebration.
Khichdi
In many regions of India, khichdi, a comfort dish prepared of rice and lentils, is a mainstay. Eating khichdi on Makar Sankranti is considered lucky since it is thought to bring luck and prosperity. Khichdi can be eaten with many different sides, including yoghurt, pickles, and ghee.
Kakara Pitha
During Makar Sankranti, the state of Odisha prepares a traditional cake called a kakara pitha. It is prepared as little, spherical cakes using a batter of rice flour, jaggery, and coconut. All ages appreciate the tasty and nutritious snack known as kakara pitha.
Laddoo
The ingredients for laddoo, a particular kind of sweet ball, are wheat, ghee, and sugar. During Makar Sankranti and other Hindu festivals, it is a well-liked traditional dish. People of all ages enjoy laddoo, a delicious and healthful snack that is a crucial component of the Makar Sankranti festival.
Puran Poli
In the western states of India, a traditional bread known as puran poli is made during Makar Sankranti. Whole wheat flour, ghee, and a sweet filling of chana dal and jaggery are used to make it. Puran Poli is a delicious and healthy snack that is enjoyed by people of all ages and is an integral part of the Makar Sankranti celebration.
Chakli
Rice flour, gram flour, and spices are used to make the common snack known as chakli. People of all ages like this crunchy and delicious snack. Chakli is often fashioned into a spiral pattern and deep-fried until golden brown. It is the ideal treat to enjoy while honouring Makar Sankranti.
Ghee
Clarified butter, often known as ghee, is a common ingredient in Indian households. Consuming ghee on Makar Sankranti is considered lucky since it is thought to bring wealth and fortune. Many traditional cuisines call for ghee, which is also used as a condiment.
In addition to being delicious, these foods are said to bring luck and success. Don't forget to include these items in your festive spread if you want to observe Makar Sankranti in the proper manner. Greetings on Makar Sankranti!
