Uttarayan

Uttarayan is a term used in Indian culture with multiple meanings. In astronomy, Uttarayan denotes the sun’s northward progression through the sky, which brings longer days after the winter solstice. In the Hindu solar calendar, this movement is marked by the sun’s entry into Makara (Capricorn), traditionally celebrated as Makar Sankranti on 14 January or thereabouts and regarded as the start of longer daylight and a new harvest period.

In the Indian state of Gujarat, Uttarayan commonly refers to the International Kite Festival, a major cultural event held during Makar Sankranti. It is especially prominent in Ahmedabad, where thousands fly kites from rooftops and along the Sabarmati Riverfront. The festival attracts visitors from across India and abroad and has helped establish Gujarat as a center of kite culture.

Customs and practices center on kite flying, with participants using a wide range of kites and string. Festive foods such as tilgul and undhiyu are enjoyed during the season in many communities. In modern celebrations, safety regulations govern kite strings (manja) to prevent injuries, and some states restrict or ban glass-coated lines.

Thus, Uttarayan denotes both an astronomical solar term and a regional cultural festival in Gujarat, illustrating how a single word can describe celestial phenomena and a public holiday that celebrates light, harvest, and community.