Elisabethstraße 9a, 85051 Ingolstadt
Register Now
Welcome to the Celebration of Makar Sankranti
"Celebrating the harvest, the Sun, and the spirit of togetherness."
As the Sun begins its northward journey, we come together to celebrate Makar Sankranti — a festival that marks new beginnings, gratitude, and the joy of harvest. From colorful kites in the sky to the aroma of traditional sweets, this festival unites people across India in warmth and togetherness. Join us as we honor the spirit of the Telugu States — where Sankranthi shines as Pedda Panduga, the grand festival of light, love, and abundance.
The Spirit of Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti marks the Sun's transition into Makara Rashi (Capricorn), signaling the end of winter and the start of brighter, longer days. It is a time to thank nature, cattle, and the Sun God for a successful harvest and abundance. Across India, the festival takes on diverse and colorful forms — each reflecting the region's traditions and values.
Celebrations Across India
🔥 North India
Lohri & Khichdi Parv: Bonfires, folk songs, and sesame-jaggery offerings symbolize warmth and renewal.
🪁 West India
Uttarayan: The sky fills with vibrant kites as families enjoy Undhiyu and Til Chikki.
🎉 East India
Poush Sankranti & Magh Bihu: Community feasts, fairs, and sweets made from new rice and jaggery mark the harvest.
🌾 South India
Pongal & Suggi Habba: Homes celebrate prosperity with decorated cattle and dishes like Sweet Pongal and Ellu-Bella.
Sankranthi in Telugu States
In the Telugu calendar, Sankranthi or Pedda Panduga (The Big Festival) is celebrated with unmatched joy and devotion. It's a three-day festival that beautifully combines spirituality, tradition, and community bonding.
Homes are cleaned and decorated with colorful Muggulu (rangoli) and mango leaf toranams. Old items are burned in Bhogi Mantalu bonfires at dawn, symbolizing a fresh start and the burning away of negativity.
The main festival day dedicated to Lord Surya (Sun God). Families cook Pongali (sweet rice with milk and jaggery), wear new clothes, exchange greetings, and fly kites. Villages host bull races, Gangireddu (decorated bull) dances, and community feasts, filling the air with joy and festivity.
A day of gratitude to cattle, vital partners in farming. Cows and bulls are bathed, decorated with flowers and colors, and offered special food — honoring their role in sustaining life.
Cultural Essence
The festival paints the Telugu heartland with vibrant colors — beautiful Muggulu, Haridasu songs, Gangireddu performances, kite flying, and family reunions. It is a time when every home radiates warmth, generosity, and happiness — truly reflecting the spirit of Sankranthi.
"As the Sun begins its northward journey, may our hearts too rise with light, warmth, and new beginnings."