The Festival of Kites and Joy

Celebrate Uttarayan: A festival of kites, joy, and vibrant traditions in Gujarat.

Image from Canva

Uttarayan, also known as Makar Sankranti in many parts of India, is a vibrant and cherished festival celebrated enthusiastically in Gujarat, especially in Ahmedabad. Every year, on January 14, Uttarayan marks the transition of the Sun into the zodiac of Capricorn (Makara Rashi) as it begins its journey northward. This astronomical event signifies longer days and the arrival of spring, making it a time of joy, harvest, and new beginnings.

Growing up in Katni, Madhya Pradesh, my childhood memories of preparing kites and attempting to fly them bring nostalgia. However, celebrating Uttarayan in Ahmedabad is an entirely different experience — a spectacle of color, energy, and camaraderie that is hard to match.

Significance of Uttarayan

1. Spiritual Significance: Uttarayan is a time to thank the Sun God (Surya Dev) for sustaining life on Earth. It symbolizes the transition from darkness to light and the end of the winter solstice.
2. Harvest Festival: It celebrates the harvest season as farmers rejoice in their hard work, which yields results. It is also believed to be an auspicious time for new beginnings.
3. Cultural Unity…