Sankranti is not just a festival in Andhra Pradesh—it is an emotion.
It is the time when villages come alive, families reunite, kitchens smell of fresh sweets, and the sky fills with colourful kites.
Unlike many festivals celebrated for a single day, Sankranti unfolds slowly, beautifully, over several days. Each day has its own meaning, rituals, food, and joy. For Telugu families, Sankranti is deeply connected to agriculture, gratitude, nature, and togetherness.
If you want to truly understand Andhra Pradesh and its people, experiencing Sankranti is the best way.
This guide explains everything about Sankranti festival in Andhra Pradesh—from traditions and food to village celebrations and travel tips for families.
What Is Sankranti Festival?
Sankranti, also called Makara Sankranti, marks the moment when the Sun begins its northward journey (Uttarayanam). In simple words, it celebrates the harvest season and thanks nature for abundance.
In Andhra Pradesh, Sankranti is mainly a harvest festival, deeply rooted in farming culture. Farmers celebrate the fruits of their hard work, and families express gratitude to the Sun, land, cattle, and nature.
Unlike festivals based on the lunar calendar, Sankranti follows the solar calendar and usually falls on January 14 or 15 every year.
Why Sankranti Is Special in Andhra Pradesh
Sankranti holds a unique place in Andhra Pradesh for many reasons:
- Agriculture plays a central role in daily life
- Most families return to their native villages
- Celebrations last for four days
- Every ritual has a cultural meaning
- Food is prepared fresh from newly harvested crops
For many Telugu people working in cities, Sankranti is the festival that brings them home.
The 4 Days of Sankranti Festival Explained
Day 1: Bhogi – Letting Go of the Old
Bhogi marks the beginning of Sankranti celebrations.
On this day, people clean their homes and discard old or unused items. Early in the morning, families light Bhogi Mantalu (bonfires) using old wooden items, symbolizing the removal of negativity and the start of a fresh chapter.
Children gather around the fire, elders bless the family, and the village atmosphere becomes festive even before sunrise.
Bhogi highlights in Andhra Pradesh:
- Early morning bonfires
- House cleaning and decorations
- Special oil bath rituals
- Bhogi Pallu ceremony for babies
Day 2: Sankranti – The Main Festival Day
This is the most important day.
Homes are decorated with beautiful muggulu (rangoli) and gobbemma designs using cow dung and flowers. People wake up early, wear new clothes, and perform Sun worship.
Families prepare traditional sweets, visit temples, and spend time together.
Kite flying becomes the highlight of the day, especially in towns and villages.
Sankranti day traditions include:
- Surya puja
- Wearing new clothes
- Preparing sweets like ariselu
- Family gatherings
- Kite flying
Day 3: Kanuma – Celebrating Cattle & Agriculture
Kanuma is dedicated to farmers and cattle.
Cows and bulls are decorated with flowers, turmeric, and kumkum. In villages, cattle are worshipped as they play a vital role in farming.
This day reflects Andhra Pradesh’s deep respect for agriculture and animals.
Kanuma celebrations include:
- Cattle decoration
- Traditional village meals
- Rural games and fairs
- Community gatherings
Kanuma is rarely celebrated in cities, which makes village celebrations even more special.
Day 4: Mukkanuma – The Forgotten Celebration
Mukkanuma is mostly observed in rural Andhra Pradesh.
It is a quieter day, often associated with non-vegetarian feasts and relaxation after the main celebrations. Many families use this day to visit relatives or nearby villages.
Though not widely discussed, Mukkanuma completes the Sankranti festival cycle.
Sankranti Food Traditions in Andhra Pradesh
Food is the heart of Sankranti celebrations.
Most dishes are prepared using newly harvested rice, jaggery, and lentils, making them extra special.
Popular Sankranti Foods
- Ariselu – The signature Sankranti sweet
- Pongali – Sweet and savory rice dish
- Garelu – Crispy lentil fritters
- Sakinalu – Crunchy snack prepared specially for festivals
- Pulihora – Tamarind rice offered to the Sun
In villages, food is often cooked in large quantities and shared with neighbors, relatives, and guests.
👉Traditional Sankranti Foods of Andhra Pradeshraditional Sankranti Foods of Andhra Pradesh
Sankranti in Villages vs Cities
Village Sankranti Experience
- Early morning Bhogi Mantalu
- Hand-drawn muggulu
- Cattle worship on Kanuma
- Traditional cooking methods
- Community bonding
City Sankranti Experience
- Apartment celebrations
- Kite flying on terraces
- Temple visits
- Cultural events
For travelers, village Sankranti offers a richer and more authentic experience.
Best Places to Experience Sankranti in Andhra Pradesh
If you want to witness real Sankranti celebrations, consider:
- Godavari belt villages for agriculture and food traditions
- Krishna district villages for cultural activities
- Rayalaseema villages for simple, heartfelt celebrations
- Temple towns where festival rituals blend with spirituality
Many families now prefer village tourism during Sankranti to escape city crowds.
👉 Best Villages to Experience Sankranti
Sankranti Travel Tips for Families
Sankranti is a peak travel season, so planning is important.
Useful Tips:
- Book transport and stays early
- Prefer villages or small towns for authentic experiences
- Carry warm clothes for early mornings
- Respect local customs and rituals
- Travel light due to holiday rush
For families with kids and elders, short trips and relaxed itineraries work best.
Why Sankranti Is Perfect for Family Travel
Sankranti naturally brings families together.
- Schools and offices usually have holidays
- Activities suit all age groups
- Food is fresh and homemade
- Cultural exposure for children
- Slower pace compared to tourist-heavy festivals
This makes Sankranti ideal for budget-friendly, meaningful family trips.
Sankranti and Telugu Childhood Memories
For many Telugu people, Sankranti memories include:
- Flying kites with cousins
- Eating hot ariselu fresh from the stove
- Running around Bhogi fires
- Visiting grandparents’ villages
- Playing traditional games
These memories are why Sankranti continues to hold a special place in Telugu hearts, even today.
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Experience Sankranti in Andhra Pradesh
Sankranti is not about grand decorations or loud celebrations.
It is about gratitude, family, tradition, and simplicity.
Whether you are a traveler, a culture lover, or a family looking for meaningful holidays, experiencing Sankranti in Andhra Pradesh offers something rare—authentic joy.
If you want to understand Telugu culture beyond tourist spots, Sankranti is the perfect time.
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