Makar Sankranti is not just another festival. It is celebrated differently across India. In Punjab, it is celebrated as Lohri, while in Tamil Nadu it is Pongal, in Assam, it is called Bhogali Bihu, and so on.
In North India, apart from following the rituals, people engage in kite flying and enjoy chole bhature with their families. The sight of the sky and the warmth of sharing a sumptuous meal make this festival special. It is one of the winter days when the entire family heads to their terraces and rooftops, with their kites and strong strings. Once they are done, they come back home to gorge on their freshly fried bhature and simmering chole, which is usually followed by hot chai and of course stories and laughter. This simple combination of outdoor fun and homemade food has been bringing families together for generations.
Shedding light on Makar Sankranti and kite flying
Makar Sankranti marks the Sun’s northward journey into the zodiac sign of Capricorn, symbolising longer, warmer days ahead and the promise of a new harvest season. It is celebrated on 14th January each year and is also the time when people gather to fly kites. As one of the most cherished traditional Indian festivals, kite flying on this day is historically rooted in solar worship. Spiritually, it represents reaching out to the divine and expressing our gratitude for the blessing of the Sun on us. The act of kite flying is associated with warding off evil spirits and bringing about health and prosperity. This ultimately turns the sky into a canvas of colourful aspirations and delighted expressions.
Chole bhature takes center stage
While the vibrant kites soar outside in the sky, chole bhature claims its special spot inside the home as the perfect Makar Sankranti food. Chole bhature is a spicy and flavourful chickpea curry served with fried bread. It is not only delicious but also a source of instant energy which helps in keeping the kite flyers lively and buoyant throughout the day. The connection between the food and the activity is symbiotic, as both represent joy and celebration.
The love for chole bhature goes beyond the festival of Makar Sankranti. This is a beloved dish across North India. It has originated from Punjab and is now a staple in several festive and celebratory occasions. The dish is relished for its rich flavours that tickle the taste buds and the soft and fluffy bhature that just adds to the taste.
Sita Ram Diwan Chand’s iconic chole bhature
As we delve deeper into the world of chole bhature, no discussion would be complete without mentioning the iconic Sita Ram Diwan Chand in Delhi. Renowned for their unparalleled taste, their chole bhature is a blend of tradition and flavour that has been perfected over the years. The secret lies in the spices they use and the method of preparation they follow, which attracts food lovers from all over the globe. Visiting Sita Ram Diwan Chand offers more than just a meal. Eating at their outlet is an experience that pays homage to the culinary tradition of this delightful dish.
Wrapping it up!
As we wrap up our discussion on kite flying and chole bhature on Makar Sankranti, we see how these traditions are more than just cultural practices. They are a celebration of life’s renewed vigour and communal joy. Each kite in the sky and every plate of chole bhature shared among friends and family strengthens bonds and enriches our cultural fabric. This Makar Sankranti, let us embrace the warmth of the Sun and the richness of our traditions with every kite we fly and every bite of chole bhature we savour.