Makar Sankranti

Makar Sankranti is a popular Hindu festival celebrated across India, marking the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makara). Observed in mid-January, it signifies the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer days. I had the joy of experiencing this festival firsthand. My neighbors and I gathered on the rooftop to fly colorful kites—a tradition during Makar Sankranti. It’s customary to engage in kite battles, trying to cut and collect as many of your opponents’ kites as possible. At the end of the night families gathered on rooftops to light cancels and release landers into the sky, sending your wish and goodwill into the wind.