Chandigarh welcomed Makar Sankranti on Wednesday with clear skies and festive energy. The winter haze lifted as the Sun started its northward journey. Residents across the city embraced the day with a mix of spirituality, tradition, and strong community bonds.
Spiritual Start at Panjab University
The celebrations began early at Panjab University. A sacred 'havan' took place at Lala Lajpat Rai Hall. Participants followed traditional rites and Vedic chanting during the ritual. They offered prayers for peace, prosperity, harmony, and universal well-being.
Many attendees said the ceremony provided a calming break from their busy academic schedules. It highlighted how ancient practices remain relevant in today's fast-paced world. The spiritual gathering set a reflective tone for the day's festivities.
Kite Flying Lights Up the Skies
As the morning progressed, public parks in Chandigarh buzzed with activity. Colourful kites dotted the sky, swaying gently in the winter breeze. Children ran across grassy fields with excitement. Elders sat on benches or strolled leisurely, but all eyes looked upward at the vibrant display.
Passing on Traditions
Mandeep, a personal dog trainer from Punjab, taught his children how to fly kites in one park. He watched patiently as they struggled with the strings. "People don't fly kites like they used to," Mandeep observed. He expressed concern that many parents no longer teach this skill to their kids. "I worry the festival may lose its charm," he added.
Still, Mandeep's smile returned each time a kite climbed higher. Cheers from nearby children greeted every successful ascent. His dedication showed a personal effort to keep the tradition alive for the next generation.
A Lifelong Passion
K L Sachdeva, aged 78, has flown kites for over 65 years. He fondly recalled visits to Leisure Valley in Sector 10. Sachdeva describes himself as a true kite enthusiast. He keeps 300–400 kites at his home and distributed several to children in the park on Wednesday.
"It brings people out of their homes. It creates a sense of community," Sachdeva explained. He noted that his son shares the same enthusiasm for kite flying. Chandigarh even has a dedicated kite flying club, which helps sustain this cherished tradition year after year.
Indoor Devotion at Sri Ayyappa Temple
While kite flying dominated the outdoors, devotion resonated inside temples too. At Sri Ayyappa Temple in Sector 47, devotees marked Makaravilakku with special prayers. The Makaravilakku Puja began on November 17 and concluded on Sankranti.
This annual festival holds deep significance in Kerala and connects to the Sabarimala shrine. The indoor ceremonies provided a solemn contrast to the lively park scenes, showcasing the festival's diverse spiritual aspects.
A Day of Unity and Joy
Makar Sankranti in Chandigarh blended ancient rituals with modern community engagement. From university havens to park kites and temple prayers, the day offered something for everyone. It reinforced cultural ties and brought residents together under clearer winter skies.
The celebrations demonstrated how traditions adapt while retaining their core values. They fostered a shared sense of joy and belonging across different age groups and backgrounds in the city.
