Makar Sankranti is celebrated differently across India. And each state has its special delicacies that infuse flavors into the festival.
It's that time of the year again – everywhere you look, you’ll feel a sense of renewal. Makar Sankranti is undoubtedly one of India's most cherished festivals. And like any other Indian festival, it's incomplete without those mouthwatering sweet items.
The beauty of Makar Sankranti is that it's celebrated differently and in various names across India - Peddha Panduga in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, Pongal in Tamil Nadu, Makara Sankranti in Kerala, Khichari in Bhojpuri region, Magh Bihu in Assam, and Sukarat in central India among others. Just like that, there are unique regional sweet items that define the celebrations.
In this article, let's have a look at some that you may try at home.
Made from rice, jaggery, and cardamom, Sakkarai Pongal is an integral part of the celebrations in Tamil Nadu. The delicacy aligns with the festive spirit, as it's made of newly harvested rice and jaggery. Thanks to its rich flavor, it's quite popular among people of all age groups.
Ariselu is a traditional sweet item in Andhra Pradesh that's prepared particularly during the harvest season. Prepared with soaked and finely ground rice combined with jaggery, the delicacy - when you take a bite - feels like a warm hug from your childhood friend. It has a slightly chewy texture that makes it irresistible, while the rich flavors leave you wanting more.
West Bengal is the land of sweets (if you're a Bengali, you know), where the scene elevates to a whole new level during winter - thanks to the availability of Nolen Gur. And among the Nolen Gur delicacies which are part of Makar Sankranti (Poush Sankranti in local language) celebrations, Patishapta comes atop the list. Whether it's the soft texture, the crispy outer layer, or the caramelized filling - it's something you can never get enough of.
8. Patishapta pic.twitter.com/Ye8mrPZiLg
— Raghu (@IndiaTales7) February 23, 2023
(Credit: Raghu)
The preparation of Patishapta is also quite interesting, because it brings families together, where the older generations pass the recipe down to the younger.
Til Ladoo is inarguably the heart of Punjab's Lohri celebrations - but it's common in other places in North and West India as well. Made from roasted sesame seeds and jaggery, these "chhota packet bada dhamaka" tastes heavenly (thanks to their nutty aroma and texture). And there's another side as well - they provide a good pack of warmth and strength to your body, which is required during the chili winters.
Til Gud Ladoo: Til Laddu Recipe | Tilkut Recipe | Tilwa Bihar & Jharkhand Cuisine#TilLaddu #TilLadduRecipe #TilKeLadoo #Tilwa #TilGudLadduRecipe #TilLaddooJharkhandCuisine pic.twitter.com/GouAcUpUW8
— DPMI India (@dpmi_india) August 18, 2023
(Credit: DPMI India)
During the festival, Til Ladoos are exchanged among families and friends in Punjab as a symbol of love.
Made from caramelized jaggery and a variety of nuts, Chikki is a delightful treat that holds a special place among the Marathis. Just like Til Ladoo, Chikki is also a good source of energy that will keep you full for a long time. Also, like Patishapta, it's prepared in bulk in families, fostering a sense of togetherness among all.
Remember that dialogue by Naina (Deepika Padukone) in 'Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani'? Well, Chikki is that 'mithai' that you cannot stop at one.
And the list obviously doesn't end here. Besides the above-mentioned sweets, it also includes Doodh Puli, Chakkara Pongal, Moong Dal Halwa, Kheer, Gajak, Payesh, Besan Ladoo, Chhena Poda, and Puran Poli among others.
