Agartala, January 14: As India marks Makar Sankranti, the northeastern state of Tripura is celebrating Poush Sankranti, a festival steeped in tradition and cultural significance.
Women especially across rural Tripura after cleaning their homes adorned courtyards with intricate rangolis, known locally as ‘alpans,’ in preparation for the festivities.
Rangoli, a traditional Indian folk art, is created using materials like rice flour, lime, colored mud, leaves, and flowers. In recent years, synthetic colors have also become popular.
These vibrant patterns, symbolizing religious devotion, are believed to invite Goddess Lakshmi, bringing good fortune, health, and wealth. The art of rangoli is passed down through generations, keeping the tradition alive.
In farming households, women prepare rice powder from freshly harvested paddy to create rice cakes and sweet dishes.
These offerings are made to the Sun God and ancestors, honoring a practice that has been observed for centuries.
Locally referred to as ‘alanti,’ the festival is an opportunity to remember forefathers and celebrate the new harvest with an array of dishes.
While urban areas have seen a decline in such traditions due to modern lifestyles, rural Tripura continues to celebrate Poush Sankranti with great devotion and enthusiasm.
According to Hindu beliefs, Makar Sankranti marks the transition of the Sun from Sagittarius to Capricorn, signaling the beginning of the Sun’s northward journey (Uttarayan). This celestial shift is associated with longer, warmer days, signifying the end of winter.
