Introduction
Sankranti, also called Makara Sankranti, is one of the biggest and most important festivals in Andhra Pradesh and across South India. In Tamil Nadu, it is widely known as Pongal.
It is a harvest festival celebrated to thank:
- The Sun God (Surya)
- Nature
- Farmers
- Cattle
for a successful agricultural season.
The festival usually falls on January 14 or 15 every year when the Sun enters the zodiac sign of Makara (Capricorn).
Importance of Sankranti
Sankranti marks:
- The end of winter
- The beginning of the harvest season
- The arrival of longer days
It is considered highly auspicious in Hindu tradition.
In places like Guntakal and the Rayalaseema region, Sankranti is celebrated with family gatherings, colorful decorations, traditional foods, and village festivities.
Scientific and Religious Significance
Astronomical Importance
Makara Sankranti is based on the solar calendar. It marks the movement of the Sun into the Capricorn zodiac sign.
This transition is called:
- Uttarayana — the northward journey of the Sun.
According to Hindu belief, Uttarayana is a very sacred period.
Sankranti Festival Duration
In Andhra Pradesh, Sankranti is usually celebrated for 3 or 4 days:
- Bhogi
- Sankranti
- Kanuma
- Mukkanuma (in some regions)
Day 1 – Bhogi
Meaning
Bhogi is dedicated to Lord Indra, the God of rain and agriculture.
Celebrations
People:
- Clean their homes
- Throw away old unwanted items
- Decorate houses beautifully
Bhogi Mantalu
Early in the morning, bonfires called Bhogi Mantalu are lit.
People gather around the fire singing songs and celebrating the new season.
Children are often showered with:
- Flowers
- Fruits
- Coins
This ritual is called Bhogi Pallu.
Day 2 – Sankranti
This is the main festival day.
Morning Rituals
Families:
- Wake up early
- Take oil baths
- Wear new clothes
- Offer prayers to the Sun God
Rangoli (Muggulu)
Women create colorful rangoli designs outside homes using:
- Rice flour
- Colors
- Flowers
Special cow-dung decorations called Gobbemmalu are also placed in front of homes.
Worship of the Sun God
People offer:
- Sugarcane
- Rice
- Fruits
- Turmeric
- Flowers
to Surya Bhagavan (Sun God) to thank him for a good harvest.
Traditional Foods
Many delicious dishes are prepared during Sankranti:
Popular Foods
- Ariselu
- Pongal
- Garelu
- Pulihora
- Bobbatlu
- Payasam
- Sweet rice dishes
Freshly harvested rice and jaggery are widely used.
Pongal Festival
In Tamil culture, the main dish prepared is called Pongal, made with:
- Rice
- Milk
- Jaggery
The boiling over of milk symbolizes:
- Prosperity
- Abundance
- Happiness
People say:
“Pongalo Pongal!” while preparing it.
Day 3 – Kanuma
Kanuma is mainly dedicated to:
- Cattle
- Farmers
- Village traditions
Importance of Cattle
Farmers worship cows and bulls because they help in agriculture.
Animals are:
- Bathed
- Decorated
- Fed special food
- Worshipped
In villages near Guntakal, cattle processions and rural celebrations are common during Kanuma.
Day 4 – Mukkanuma
Mukkanuma is celebrated in some regions of Andhra Pradesh.
People:
- Visit relatives
- Organize community feasts
- Enjoy cultural events and outdoor gatherings
It is considered a day for relaxation and social celebration.
Kite Flying
Kite flying is a major attraction during Sankranti in many parts of India.
Children and youth gather on rooftops flying colorful kites throughout the day.
The sky becomes filled with vibrant designs and festive excitement.
Village Celebrations
In rural areas around Guntakal, Sankranti celebrations often include:
- Bull races
- Folk dances
- Haridasu songs
- Gangireddu performances
- Village fairs
These traditions reflect Telugu rural culture and heritage.
Haridasu Tradition
A Haridasu is a traditional devotional singer who visits homes singing songs about Lord Vishnu.
He carries:
- A tambura
- Decorative clothing
People offer rice, grains, or donations.
Gangireddu Tradition
Decorated bulls called Gangireddu are taken from house to house with music and dance performances.
This is a famous Sankranti tradition in Andhra Pradesh.
Sankranti Decorations
Homes are decorated with:
- Mango leaves
- Flowers
- Rangoli
- Sugarcane sticks
The atmosphere becomes colorful and joyful.
Cultural Programs
Schools and cultural organizations conduct:
- Dance competitions
- Singing programs
- Traditional games
- Rangoli competitions
Families gather together and celebrate with joy.