Sankranti, also known as Makar Sankranti, is a significant festival celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy in the villages of Rajasthan. This festival, marking the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of Makara (Capricorn), is a time of thanksgiving, community bonding, and vibrant festivities.

The preparations for Sankranti in Rajasthan villages begin well in advance. Houses are cleaned, and courtyards are beautifully decorated with mandanas (traditional Rajasthani art). Women prepare special dishes like til-paati, gajak, pheeni, kheer, pakodi, and puwa. The markets are filled with colorful kites as kite flying is a significant part of the Sankranti celebrations.

On the day of Sankranti, people wake up early, take a holy dip and offer prayers to the Sun God. The sky is filled with colorful kites, and the atmosphere is filled with joy and excitement. In the evening, people light bonfires, sing folk songs, and dance. They also exchange sweets and gifts with their loved ones.

The celebrations do not end with the passing of Sankranti day. The following day, known as 'Paush Bada', is also celebrated with equal fervor. Women wear their best clothes and jewelry, and there are singing and dancing performances. The festival concludes with the 'Kite Flying Day' when the sky is filled with kites of all shapes and sizes.

Sankranti is not just a festival but a symbol of positivity, prosperity, and happiness. It is a time when people forget their differences and come together to celebrate. The festival also marks the arrival of spring and the end of the winter season. It is a celebration of life, nature, and the victory of good over evil.