The festival of Makar Sankranti ushered in joy and excitement on Sunday morning in Jaipur. The city came alive as residents gathered on rooftops, flying kites to the tunes of film songs since early morning. As the sun rose, the sky transformed into a canvas of colours, mirroring the enthusiasm of the Pink City.
Especially in the boundary areas, every terrace and park rooftop was adorned with families engaged in kite-flying. This year, Makar Sankranti festivities extend over two days, with the auspicious period lasting from sunrise to sunset on January 15th. Astrologers predict the Sun’s entry into Capricorn late on Sunday night, ensuring the festive spirit continues on Monday.
Passion for cutting kites and friendly competitions were witnessed on rooftops, with families enjoying the kite festival. Competitions and kite-flying events were held across various neighbourhoods, including Raja Park, Mansarovar, Vidyadhar Nagar, and Vaishali Nagar. The evening sky dazzled with colourful kites, fireworks, aerial lanterns, and balloons.
On Makar Sankranti, people spent the day on rooftops, enjoying the company of relatives and friends. Rooftop gatherings featured tea, snacks, and meals, creating a festive atmosphere. The aroma of sesame laddus wafted through homes, as these dishes are traditionally donated on Sankranti.
With the Sun entering Capricorn late on Sunday night, Monday involves charity activities such as providing fodder to cows, grains to birds, and donating food and clothes to the poor. Charitable efforts lead to crowds gathering across the city, with vehicles distributing fodder to cows, a tradition that sometimes results in wastage.
Makar Sankranti saw significant market activity, with women donating 14 items each to Kalpi. The clothing trade experienced a boom, and markets reported substantial sales of kites and manjha. Shops selling utensils, groceries, sweets, and fruits also witnessed increased sales.
Temples decorated special tableaux for Makar Sankranti, offering kites to deities. The city’s idol, Govind Dev Ji, flew a silver kite, and feini, along with sesame dishes, were offered.
Devotees gathered at Galata Tirtha for the Galata bath, and Paushbade marked a special event.
The Tourism Department and Jaipur District Administration organised a kite festival on the sails of Jal Mahal, where local and foreign guests participated in flying kites together. Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari and department representatives were present at the event.
