Like Lohri, Makar Sankranti is also a festival of Sun God to mark the end of the winter solstice. It celebrates the entry of Sun God into Makar Rashi (Capricorn) which symbolises the beginning of longer and brighter days. It is celebrated with flying kites and worshipping Lord Sun. Til-gur (sesame-jaggery) are the most important items of this festival. Lohri is mostly celebrated in Punjab, but Makar Sankranti is celebrated in most of the northern region and also eastern region. The festival will be marked from 8:30 AM and will end at 5:45 PM of January 14. Whereas, the Makar Sankranti Maha Punya Kala muhurat will begin from 8:30 AM and will end at 10:45 PM, on the same day.
KhichdiKhichdi is a dish made of rice, ghee, vegetables, pulses and dry fruits and other masalas is one of the most popular dishes served with dahi (yoghurt), achar, papad and mixed vegetables. It is mainly served for the people of Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
Dahi Chura GurIt is a traditional dish that people have to have on this auspicious day. The delicacy is made of by mixing dahi (yoghurt), flattened rice flakes (chivda) and gur (jaggery) and served with chivda lai and gur ki lai. It is mostly seen in Bihar.
Til LaddooIt is another traditional sweet dish made of gur (jaggery) and til (sesame) and peanuts.
Jaggery RiceJaggery rice is a different kind of Kheer, also known as rasiyao. It is made of milk, rice, jaggery, and roasted dry fruits.
Til ChikkiTil Chikki is a variation of til laddoo made of same ingredients, til (sesame) and gur (jaggery). This is another traditional dessert served mostly in Haryana.
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