Makar Sankranti denotes the entry of the sun into the zodiac sign of Makara (Capricorn) as it travels on its celestial path. It marks the beginning of warmer and longer days as compared to nights till the next equinox. 

Makar Sankranti is known by various names in different regions; for instance, Pongal in Tamil Nadu, Maghi in Himachal Pradesh and Haryana, Magh Bihu in Assam, Poush Sangkranti in West Bengal amongst others.

For most parts in India, this period is a part of early stages of the Rabi crop and agricultural cycle, wherein crops are sown, hard work in the field is over and it is time to celebrate and rejoice. In most cities, kids and adults indulge in kite flying competitions as a celebratory affair. Moreover, on this day various fairs are organized in different regions of the country.

‘Til  ladoos’ made of sesame seeds and jaggery are made and distributed amongst friends and family. It is believed that sesame loaded foods have the ability to absorb and emit high amounts of sattva frequencies.

Devotees at Maninagar Shree Swaminarayangadi Sansthan, Shree Swaminarayan Siddhant Sajivan Mandal – Nairobi; gathered to observe this auspicious occasion. After Mangla Niyams, devotees received blessings from Acharya Swamishree Maharaj. Lord Swaminarayan, Jeevanpran Bapashree, Shree Muktajeevan Swamibapa and Shree Hari Krushna Maharaj were adorned in various colored kites. The temple hall too was decorated strategically with kites of all sizes.

After Sandhya Arti Niyams, the devotees gathered to receive the blessings of Acharya Swamishree Maharaj’s divine discourses.