Makar Sankranti is one of India's most important solar festivals and marks the Sun's transition into the zodiac sign of Makara (Capricorn). It is traditionally associated with the end of the winter solstice period and the beginning of longer, brighter days. Unlike many Hindu festivals that follow a lunar calendar, Makar Sankranti follows the solar calendar, which is why it generally falls around the same date every year. The festival is celebrated across India under different regional names and with distinctive customs. In Tamil Nadu, it is celebrated as Pongal, a four-day harvest festival honoring the Sun, nature, farmers and cattle. In Gujarat, it is known as Uttarayan and is famous for spectacular kite flying. In Punjab and Haryana, the season is closely connected with Lohri, while in Assam it is associated with Magh Bihu. People take holy dips in rivers, offer prayers to the Sun, decorate homes, prepare traditional foods, exchange sweets and visit family and friends. Sesame and jaggery are particularly important in many regions, symbolizing warmth, sweetness and harmonious relationships. As a harvest festival, Makar Sankranti also expresses gratitude for nature, sunlight, rainfall and agricultural abundance.