Odisha: One of the most auspicious solar festivals in Odisha Makar Sankranti is being observed with devotion and joy across urban and rural regions of the state on Wednesday.
Makar Sankranti is being celebrated with traditional fervour as devotees across the state marking the sun’s transition into Capricorn. Rooted in agrarian and spiritual customs, the festival drew large gatherings at temples. People thronged temples early in the morning to offer ‘Makar Chaula’—a sacred mix of newly harvested rice, jaggery, banana, coconut, sesame seeds and milk—to deities. This offering symbolizes gratitude for the harvest and invokes blessings for prosperity.
Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri witnessed a surge of devotees participating in special rituals. Similar scenes unfolded at prominent shrines like Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar and Samale
swari Temple in Sambalpur, where priests conducted ceremonial pujas and distributed prasad.
The day began with ritualistic bathing in rivers and ponds, believed to purify the soul. Many households prepared traditional sweets such as ‘Til Pitha,’ ‘Manda’ and ‘Arisa’, which were shared with neighbours and relatives. Women dressed in vibrant sarees performed ‘Surya Puja’ (worship of the Sun God), offering water and prayers at sunrise.
Sugarcane, a symbol of abundance, was prominently used in decorations and offerings. Kite flying added a splash of colour to the skies, especially in cities like Cuttack and Rourkela, where children and adults alike participated in friendly competitions. Parks and rooftops were filled with laughter and music as families gathered to enjoy the sunny winter day.
Community organizations and cultural groups organised Sankranti fairs, showcasing local crafts, food stalls, and traditional performances. The festive spirit was amplified by the sense of togetherness and renewal that Makar Sankranti embodies.
Makar Sankranti marks the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer days. In Odisha, it also signals the start of the agricultural cycle and is deeply intertwined with rural livelihoods.