Sankranti (also known as Makar Sankranti or Pedda Panduga) is the most significant harvest festival in Andhra Pradesh. It is a four-day celebration (typically January 13–16) marking the sun’s transition into the Capricorn zodiac sign (Makara) and the start of the auspicious Uttarayana period.
The Four Days of Celebration
- Day 1: Bhogi (Jan 13): Celebrated with Bhogi Mantalu (bonfires) at dawn, where people discard old belongings to symbolize new beginnings. A cherished ritual involves showering children with Bhogi Pallu (a mixture of jujube fruits, coins, and flowers) for health and protection.
- Day 2: Makara Sankranti / Pedda Panduga (Jan 14): The main festival day dedicated to the Sun God, Surya. Families wear new clothes, prepare elaborate feasts, and offer Tarpanam (prayers and offerings) to their ancestors.
- Day 3: Kanuma (Jan 15): Dedicated to honoring and worshipping cattle for their vital role in agriculture. Farmers decorate their bulls and cows with paints and flowers.
- Day 4: Mukkanuma (Jan 16): A day for social gatherings, visiting relatives, and communal feasts. While the first three days are predominantly vegetarian, non-vegetarian dishes are commonly served on Mukkanuma.
Traditional Highlights
- Muggulu (Rangoli): Women decorate the entrances of their homes with intricate geometric patterns using rice flour. During the festival, these are often topped with Gobbemmalu (small balls made of cow dung and adorned with flowers).
- Haridasu & Gangireddu: A unique sight in rural Andhra is the Haridasu, a devotee of Lord Vishnu who walks door-to-door singing hymns while carrying an Akshaya Patra (copper vessel) on his head. The Gangireddu, a vibrantly decorated bull led by a performer, also visits homes to perform tricks and offer blessings.
- Folk Sports: Traditional events like kite flying, bullock cart races, and the controversial cockfights (notably in the Coastal Andhra region) are popular during this season, despite various official bans.
Festive Foods
Sankranti is incomplete without traditional delicacies made from freshly harvested rice, jaggery, and sesame seeds:
- Ariselu: Deep-fried sweet rice cakes made with jaggery.
- Pongal (Chakkara Pongali): A sweet rice dish boiled with milk and jaggery.
- Other Dishes: Boorelu, Bobbatlu, Pulihora (tamarind rice), Garelu (lentil donuts), and Murukulu (savory snacks).
