Prayagraj Embraces Makar Sankranti with Joy and Tradition
Prayagraj welcomed the first festival of the year with immense enthusiasm on Thursday. Makar Sankranti celebrations filled the city with religious fervor under the auspicious combination of Jyeshtha Nakshatra and Vriddhi Yog.
Festive Markets and Traditional Delicacies
Since early morning, markets, streets, and residential areas displayed a vibrant festive look. City markets experienced heavy crowds as residents shopped for traditional sweets. People eagerly purchased lai-chura, tilkut, and revri—delicious cuisines made with sesame seeds.
Colorful kite shops attracted children and youth in large numbers. Garment shops reported brisk business too. Many families bought new clothes for the occasion, considering it an auspicious tradition.
Skyline Transforms with Kite Flying
Throughout the day, people flew kites across Prayagraj. The skyline turned into a beautiful mosaic of vibrant colors. Terraces and playgrounds became festive hubs as youngsters gathered with spools of thread and colorful kites.
Elderly residents joined the younger generation, sharing old memories. They guided them in handling strings and maneuvering kites skillfully. Friendly contests between neighborhood teams added excitement to the celebrations.
Community Feasts and Rural Celebrations
Local groups and social organizations organized bhandaras at several crossings. They set up feasts on important roads leading to the Sangam area and the ghats made at Naini. Devotees and passers-by served khichdi, sweets, and prasad to everyone.
In rural belts, the process of preparing jaggery gained pace on the festival day. This tradition began after Kartik Ekadashi. Villagers gathered in open spaces to celebrate collectively. Children remained busy with kite-flying competitions, adding to the festive spirit.
Family Traditions and Social Bonds
The tradition of sending gifts to daughters and daughters-in-law continued strongly. Relatives visited each other since morning, strengthening family bonds. After morning baths and breakfast, families engaged in various festive activities together.
"My sons and old friends made sure we had everything to celebrate the festival," said Prof SI Rizvi of Allahabad University. "We enjoyed kite flying on both Wednesday and Thursday with kites, thread, and winder."
Overall, Makar Sankranti in Prayagraj showcased a beautiful blend of tradition, community spirit, and joyous celebrations. The city truly embraced the festival with open hearts and vibrant energy.
