Makar Sankranti (January 14-15) is one of the most important harvest festivals in Telugu tradition, marking the Sun's transit into Capricorn (Makara). Unlike most Hindu festivals that follow the lunar calendar, Sankranti follows the solar calendar and therefore falls on January 14 or 15 every year. The celebration spans four days: Bhogi, Sankranti, Kanuma, and Mukkanuma.

Bhogi (Day 1)

Bhogi is celebrated the day before Sankranti. On this day, families discard old and useless household items in a bonfire (Bhogi Mantalu) in the early morning. The bonfire symbolizes letting go of the old and welcoming the new. Children are showered with Regi Pallu (Indian jujube fruits), flowers, and coins by elders as a blessing ritual. New items are purchased and the house is spring-cleaned.

Sankranti / Pongal (Day 2)

On the main Sankranti day, Pongal (rice cooked with jaggery and milk until it overflows) is prepared as a symbol of abundance and prosperity. The overflow of the milk pot is considered auspicious — it symbolizes that the family's wealth will also overflow. The dish is first offered to the Sun god. Women draw elaborate Muggulu (rangoli) at the entrance. Kite-flying (Patang Utsav) is a major activity, especially in Hyderabad and Vijayawada.

Kanuma and Mukkanuma (Days 3 and 4)

Kanuma is the third day, dedicated to cattle worship. Cows, bulls, and bullocks are decorated with paint, garlands, and bells and honored for their role in agriculture. Families prepare special dishes like Pulihora (tamarind rice) and Chicken curry on Kanuma — it is traditionally the day for non-vegetarian celebrations. Mukkanuma (Day 4) is celebrated mostly in coastal Andhra with additional prayers and feasting.