Makar Sankranti 2025: From flying kites to visits to temples, check how the festival is observed in Odisha

It is that time of the year when people in different parts of India get into spirituality and celebratory mode on the occasion of Makar Sankranti.

Makar Sankranti is one of the auspicious Hindu festival that marks the transition of the Sun into Capricorn, marking the end of winter and the beginning of longer days. It also symbolizes the beginning of its northward journey, or Uttarayana.

Makar Sankranti represents gratitude, renewal, and unity. Among the numerous customs and rituals, one common tradition that is observed in severalparts of India is the preparation and consumption of khichdi and til ke ladoo made with jaggery.

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In Odisha, the festival of Makar Sankranti is deeply intertwined with traditional practices and cultural symbolism. Devotees throng several temples to offer prayers and seek blessings.

A large number of people gather at Konark in Puri district to offer puja to the Sun God. They choose Konark because of its link with the Sun.  The portmanteau of Konark is ‘Kona’, which means corner in English and ‘Ark’ meaning ‘Sun'.

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A widely believed theory is that if the Sun God is worshipped on Makara Sankranti, God accepts the prayers and saves His devotees from all problems. On this occasion, devotees take a holy dip in the Chandrabhaga Sea and offer prayers to the Sun God.

Communities come together to fly kites, exchange sweets, and participate in fairs. The festival also highlights Odisha’s heritage through folk dances, music, and the promotion of local handicrafts.

Makar Sankranti in Odisha transcends religious boundaries, serving as a time for social unity, cultural preservation, and a celebration of nature’s bounty.

On the auspicious occasion of Makar Sankranti, special rituals of Lord Jagannath and His siblings are observed at Puri Srimandir.

The deities give darshan to devotees in ' Makar Chourashi Besha'. On this day, a special 'paan' is offered to Lord Jagannath. This special 'paan' is said to be the world's largest 'paan'.

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