Thousands converged on Varanasi’s riverfront steps for Makar Sankranti, turning the occasion into a grand spectacle of spirituality and tradition. The festival, pivotal in the Hindu calendar, signifies agricultural abundance and cosmic shifts, drawing pilgrims to the Ganges for sacred immersion.
Key ghats like Ravidas and Chet Singh buzzed with activity from early morning. Brahmins led sankraman pujas, invoking blessings for prosperity. Devotees floated miniature boats laden with flowers and sweets, watching them drift as offerings to Mother Ganga. The scent of burning incense mingled with the crisp winter breeze, heightening the sensory devotion.
Kite-flying emerged as a highlight, transforming the skyline into a battlefield of colors. Enthusiasts showcased intricate manja-coated threads, cheering each victorious tug. This playful element balanced the solemnity, reminding all of joy in faith.
The district magistrate highlighted robust arrangements, including pontoon bridges for crowd management and awareness campaigns against plastic pollution. Health camps provided aid to elderly participants, ensuring inclusivity.
In the evening, the synchronized aarti at multiple ghats created a symphony of light and sound, with bells tolling and drums beating. Families gathered for bonfires, roasting corn and sharing stories under starry skies. Makar Sankranti in Varanasi encapsulated the essence of Indian culture—deep-rooted rituals evolving with communal warmth, promising renewal as winter yields to spring.