As the winter solstice sets in, India awakens to the vibrant hues of Makar Sankranti, a festival that heralds the arrival of longer days and warmer nights. Celebrated on January 14 every year, Makar Sankranti marks the beginning of the sun's journey towards the northern hemisphere, bringing with it a promise of renewal and rejuvenation. As the sun rises on this auspicious day, millions of Indians gather to worship, feast, and make merry, each with their own unique traditions and customs. From the colourful kite-flying competitions of Gujarat to the traditional harvest festivals of Tamil Nadu, Makar Sankranti is a celebration that weaves together the diverse threads of Indian culture, revealing a rich tapestry of community, faith, and joy. Additionally, one of the most interesting aspects of Makar Sankranti is the traditional outfits worn by people in different states.
1. Gujarat
In Gujarat, men wear traditional attire such as kurta-pyjama or dhoti-kurta, while women wear colourful sarees or chaniya choli. The outfits are often adorned with intricate embroidery and mirrorwork.
2. Maharashtra
In Maharashtra, men wear traditional attire such as kurta-pyjama or dhoti-kurta, while women wear sarees or salwar-kameez. The outfits are often paired with traditional accessories such as phetas (turbans) and mogras (flower garlands).
3. Telangana and Andhra Pradesh
In Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, men wear traditional attire such as dhoti-kurta or lungi, while women wear sarees or salwar-kameez. The outfits are often adorned with intricate embroidery and zari work.
4. Karnataka
In Karnataka, men wear traditional attire such as dhoti-kurta or lungi, while women wear sarees or salwar-kameez. The outfits are often paired with traditional accessories such as rudraksha malas (prayer beads) and kumkum (vermilion powder).
5. Punjab
In Punjab, men wear traditional attire such as kurta-pyjama or dhoti-kurta, while women wear salwar-kameez or sarees. The outfits are often adorned with intricate embroidery and phulkari work.
6. West Bengal
In West Bengal, men wear traditional attire such as dhoti-kurta or lungi, while women wear sarees or salwar-kameez. The outfits are often paired with traditional accessories such as shakha-pola (conch shell bangles) and sindur (vermilion powder).
7. Tamil Nadu
In Tamil Nadu, men wear traditional attire such as dhoti-kurta or lungi, while women wear sarees or salwar-kameez. The outfits are often adorned with intricate embroidery and zari work.
8. Uttar Pradesh
In Uttar Pradesh, men wear traditional attire such as kurta-pyjama or dhoti-kurta, while women wear sarees or salwar-kameez. The outfits are often paired with traditional accessories such as pagris (turbans) and juttis (traditional shoes).
9. Bihar
In Bihar, men wear traditional attire such as dhoti-kurta or lungi, while women wear sarees or salwar-kameez. The outfits are often adorned with intricate embroidery and zari work.
Makar Sankranti is a festival that celebrates the diversity and richness of Indian culture. The traditional outfits worn during the festival are a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and its ability to blend tradition with modernity. Whether it's the vibrant colours of Gujarat or the intricate embroidery of West Bengal, each state has its own unique way of celebrating Makar Sankranti through fashion.
North Indian Culture
In North India, Makar Sankranti is celebrated with traditional sweets like til laddu and jalebi, and with kite-flying competitions. In Punjab, the festival is celebrated as "Maghi", with traditional dances like the bhangra and gidda.
South Indian Culture
In South India, Makar Sankranti is celebrated as "Pongal" in Tamil Nadu, "Sankranti" in Karnataka, and "Pedda Panduga" in Andhra Pradesh. The festival is celebrated with traditional sweets like pongal (a sweet dish made from rice, jaggery, and milk), and with decorations like rangoli (colourful designs made from rice flour and flowers).
East Indian Culture
In East India, Makar Sankranti is celebrated as "Poush Sankranti" in West Bengal, with traditional sweets like pithe (a sweet dish made from rice flour and jaggery), and with decorations like alpona (intricate designs made from rice flour and water).
West Indian Culture
In West India, Makar Sankranti is celebrated with traditional sweets like til laddu and jalebi, and with kite-flying competitions. In Gujarat, the festival is celebrated as "Uttarayan", with traditional dances like the garba and dandiya raas.
These examples illustrate the diversity and richness of Makar Sankranti celebrations across different Indian cultures, and highlight the common themes of renewal, gratitude, and community that underlie these celebrations.
As we celebrate Makar Sankranti, let's come together to appreciate the rich cultural heritage. At Myntra, It is committed to bringing you the best of Indian fashion, and this Makar Sankranti collection is a testament to that. So why wait? Shop now and get ready to celebrate the festival in style! With Myntra, you can experience the vibrant spirit of Makar Sankranti of various state , no matter where you are in the country. Happy shopping, and happy Makar Sankranti!"
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