Makar Sankranti is also known as Utrayan. On this day one should try and control the Antashatrus – keep control of lust, anger, greed etc. On this day people make mithay (sweets), feed grass to cows and carry out many good deeds.
Makar Sankranti marks the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makar). It is one of the few Hindu festivals that follows the solar calendar rather than the lunar calendar, which is why it falls on the same date each year (January 14th).
This day marks the beginning of the sun’s northward journey (Uttarayana), a period considered particularly auspicious. It is believed that those who die during Uttarayana attain moksha (liberation).
In Gujarat, Makar Sankranti coincides with the famous kite festival (Uttarayan). Colourful kites fill the skies across the state. The festival is also celebrated with the preparation and exchange of til-gul (sesame and jaggery sweets), symbolising the wish for sweet relationships. Devotees take a holy dip in rivers, perform charity, and worship the sun god.