Overview
- Celebrations spanned the country under regional names such as Pongal, Magh Bihu, Uttarayan and Poush Sankranti, featuring river baths, kite flying, bonfires, charity and community gatherings.
- Sesame and jaggery traditions took center stage with til-gud exchanges, alongside state-specific dishes like sakkarai pongal, pitha, patishapta, undhiyu, khichdi, gajak and revdi.
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued greetings for Makar Sankranti, Magh Bihu and Pongal, highlighting cultural unity and farmers’ contributions, with other leaders also extending wishes.
- Police and environmental groups urged responsible celebrations, advising safer kite-flying materials to prevent injuries and reduce environmental harm.
- One outlet reported a Punya Kala window for observances from 3:13 pm to 5:45 pm IST on January 14.