Makar Sankranti, also known as Uttarayana, paints the Indian skies with vibrant hues and fills hearts with joy. As the sun gracefully glides from Sagittarius to Capricorn, this auspicious festival marks the beginning of its northward journey. Dedicated to the radiant solar deity, Surya, Makar Sankranti brings people together across India in a tapestry of celebrations. Families launch colorful kites, their strings dancing in the breeze, while crackling bonfires symbolize the triumph of light over darkness. Vibrant markets come alive with sugarcane, sesame sweets, and traditional handicrafts. Tables groan under the weight of delectable dishes—tilgul, puran poli, and khichdi. In Maharashtra, the celebration unfolds over two delightful days: Bhogi, where Maharashtrians honor Lord Malhari and Goddess Mhalsa on their divine wedding anniversary, and Makar Sankranti, the main day of festivities. Clad in new clothes (often black), families welcome loved ones, rooftops become launchpads for dreams, and sesame seeds and jaggery symbolize prosperity and sweetness in the year ahead. So, embrace the sun’s journey, dance with the wind, and savor the flavors of Makar Sankranti. May your days be as bright as the kites that dot the azure sky!