Makar Sankranti is celebrated across India with unique and delicious traditional foods that highlight the diversity of Indian cuisine. From sweet treats to savory delights, the festival’s culinary offerings are a feast for the senses. Here are some must-try traditional Makar Sankranti foods along with product recommendations to help you recreate these dishes at home.
1. Til Ladoo (Sesame and Jaggery Balls)
Til ladoos are a quintessential Sankranti sweet, made with roasted sesame seeds and jaggery. Packed with nutrients and a burst of flavor, they are easy to make at home.
Ingredients & Tools:
- Organic Sesame Seeds by 24 Mantra Organic: High-quality and chemical-free. Buy on Amazon
- Pure Jaggery Powder by Organic Tattva: Perfect for traditional sweets. Buy on Amazon
- Sweet Molds for Ladoos by Wonderchef: Ensures consistent shapes. Buy on Amazon
2. Puran Poli
A festive favorite from Maharashtra, Puran Poli is a sweet flatbread filled with a mixture of chana dal, jaggery, and spices.
Recommended Products:
- Non-Stick Tawa by Hawkins: Ideal for making perfect, evenly cooked flatbreads. Buy on Amazon
- Organic Chana Dal by 24 Mantra Organic: Healthy and unprocessed. Buy on Amazon
- Puran Poli Recipe eBook: Step-by-step guide to mastering this dish. Buy on Amazon
3. Khichdi
A simple and wholesome dish, khichdi is often made with rice, lentils, and ghee as an offering to the Sun God during Makar Sankranti.
Recommended Products:
- Organic Basmati Rice by Daawat: Aromatic and flavorful. Buy on Amazon
- Desi Ghee by Amul: Adds richness to the dish. Buy on Amazon
- Clay Cooking Pot by Mitticool: Enhances flavor and keeps it authentic. Buy on Amazon
4. Chikki (Peanut Brittle)
This crunchy sweet made with peanuts and jaggery is a festival staple across many regions of India.
Recommended Products:
- Roasted Peanuts by Happilo: Ready-to-use and high in quality. Buy on Amazon
- Silicone Baking Sheet by Solimo: Makes shaping chikki easier. Buy on Amazon
5. Other Sankranti Specialties
- Undhiyu: A mixed vegetable delicacy from Gujarat. Organic Vegetable Kit on Amazon
- Sweet Pongal: A South Indian rice and jaggery dessert. Buy Organic Rice and Jaggery on Amazon
Top 10 Ethnic Wear for Makar Sankranti Celebrations
Makar Sankranti is not only about food and kites but also about dressing up in vibrant ethnic attire to mark the festive spirit. Here are the top ethnic wear options for men, women, and children, along with shopping recommendations.
1. Silk Sarees for Women
Nothing says festive like a traditional silk saree. Opt for bright colors like yellow, orange, and red, which are considered auspicious for Makar Sankranti.
Recommended Products:
- Kanchipuram Silk Saree by Pothys: Authentic and luxurious. Buy on Amazon
- Banarasi Silk Saree by Mimosa: Perfect for festive occasions. Buy on Myntra
2. Kurta-Pajama Sets for Men
A classic kurta-pajama set is a versatile option that’s comfortable and stylish.
Recommended Products:
- Cotton Kurta-Pajama by Manyavar: Light and breathable. Buy on Flipkart
- Silk Kurta by Fabindia: Elegant and festive. Buy on Amazon
3. Lehengas for Women and Girls
Lehengas in lightweight fabrics like cotton or georgette are ideal for daytime celebrations.
Recommended Products:
- Embroidered Lehenga by Kalki Fashion: Stunning and festive. Buy on Amazon
- Kids’ Lehenga Choli by Biba: Adorable options for young girls. Buy on Amazon
4. Nehru Jackets
Pair a Nehru jacket with a kurta-pajama or a shirt for a sharp, contemporary look.
Recommended Products:
- Jute Nehru Jacket by Peter England: Stylish and eco-friendly. Buy on Amazon
- Velvet Nehru Jacket by Manyavar: Adds a royal touch. Buy on Myntra
5. Traditional Jewelry
No festive outfit is complete without jewelry. Opt for lightweight, traditional pieces that complement your attire.
Recommended Products:
- Temple Jewelry Sets by Zaveri Pearls: Intricate and elegant. Buy on Amazon
- Oxidized Earrings by Voylla: Affordable and chic. Buy on Flipkart
6. Dhoti for Men
Dhoti pants paired with kurtas create a traditional yet trendy look for men.
Recommended Products:
- Cotton Dhoti by Ramraj: Comfortable and classic. Buy on Amazon
- Ready-to-Wear Dhoti by Manyavar: Perfect for beginners. Buy on Flipkart
7. Festive Accessories
Enhance your outfit with accessories like dupattas, stoles, or juttis.
Recommended Products:
- Embroidered Dupattas by Dupatta Bazaar: Adds color and elegance. Buy on Amazon
- Traditional Juttis by NeedleDust: Comfortable and stylish. Buy on Myntra
Conclusion
Whether it’s the flavors of traditional foods or the charm of ethnic wear, Makar Sankranti offers the perfect opportunity to indulge in culture and festivity. Explore the recommended products to elevate your celebrations and make this festival truly memorable. Happy Makar Sankranti!