Around mid-January, much of India observes Makar Sankranti, associated with the Sun's transition into Makara (Capricorn) and the seasonal calendar.
Regional celebrations vary enormously — what looks like one date on a calendar becomes numerous regional traditions.
Regional Traditions
Gujarat — The sky becomes filled with kites during Uttarayan. Ahmedabad hosts the International Kite Festival.
Maharashtra — Tilgul (sesame and jaggery) sweets are exchanged with the greeting "Tilgul ghya, god god bola."
Northern India — Ritual bathing, charity and seasonal foods.
Assam — Celebrated as Magh Bihu, the harvest festival.
West Bengal — Poush Sankranti with pithe (sweet rice preparations).
The Kite Festival of Gujarat
Ahmedabad and other Gujarati cities transform for two days. Rooftops fill. Sky becomes a battlefield of kites. Cries of "Kai po che!" ("I cut it!") echo across neighborhoods.
The International Kite Festival attracts participants from around the world.