Sankranti Festival – A Grand Harvest Celebration of East Godavari
Sankranti, also known as Makar Sankranti, is one of the most vibrant and widely celebrated festivals in East Godavari district. It marks the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign Capricorn (Makara Rashi), symbolizing the end of winter and the beginning of longer, warmer days. In a region like East Godavari—famous for its lush green paddy fields, coconut groves, and fertile Konaseema belt—this festival holds deep agricultural and cultural importance.
🌞 A Festival of Harvest and Gratitude
Sankranti is primarily a harvest festival, where farmers express gratitude to nature, the Sun God, and cattle for a successful agricultural season. The district’s rich Godavari delta region produces abundant rice, sugarcane, and other crops, making this festival especially significant for rural communities.
Homes are decorated with muggulu (rangoli) made from rice flour, symbolizing prosperity and welcome. Freshly harvested rice, jaggery, and sugarcane are essential parts of celebrations.
🐂 Bhogi – The First Day of Sankranti
The festival begins with Bhogi, a day of cleansing and renewal. Old and unused items are discarded, and bonfires called Bhogi Mantalu are lit in front of houses. People gather around the fire singing traditional songs and celebrating new beginnings. Children receive gifts, and homes are freshly decorated.
🌼 Sankranti Day – Main Celebration
The main day of Sankranti is marked by:
- Offering prayers to the Sun God (Surya Bhagavan)
- Preparing traditional dishes like Ariselu, Pongali, and sweet rice
- Visiting temples and participating in community celebrations
In East Godavari, especially in Konaseema villages, families come together for grand feasts and cultural gatherings.
🐎 Kanuma – Honoring Cattle
The third day, Kanuma, is dedicated to cattle, which play a vital role in farming. Cows and bulls are decorated with flowers, turmeric, and bells. Farmers worship them and thank them for their contribution to agriculture. Bullock cart races and rural sports are also organized in some areas.