Sankranti Celebrations Embrace Modernity While Preserving Cultural Roots

Visakhapatnam: A cherished harvest festival of the Telugu states, Sankranti is undergoing a quiet yet spectacular transformation, adapting itself to contemporary lifestyles while retaining its traditional grandeur and cultural depth.Celebrated with devotion, warmth and a strong sense of community-feeling, Sankranti occupies a special place in the lives of families. While the spirit of the festival remains unchanged, the manner in which rituals are observed has evolved in tune with urban living and fast-paced routines.Perhaps the most-visible symbol of this change is Haridas, the traditional figure associated with the festival. Once known for traveling on foot from village to village, Haridas now arrives on motorcycles.Bonfires during Bogi, which traditionally marked the end of the agricultural year, have also adapted to urban settings. Apartment communities now host scaled-down bonfires in courtyards rather than in individual households.Rangoli continues to be an integral part of the Sankranti celebrations, though it has taken on a modern twist.Traditionally, families would create intricate Rangoli patterns at the entrance of their homes using colored powders. Over time, with the fast pace of urban life, these designs have evolved into more innovative methods.Today, many households use paper handcraft templates shaped like Rangoli patterns, simply place the paper on the floor, fill the open spaces with Rangoli powder, and remove the paper to reveal a perfectly formed design. Some designs also allow for pouring and spreading the powder directly over the stencil, making it easier to maintain the tradition while adding a contemporary touch.The festival’s culinary heritage remains central to the celebrations, with signature sweets like Ariselu, Bellam Pongali, Poornalu, Sunnundalu, and Kajjikayalu continuing to be prepared. Savory dishes including Garelu, Pulihora, Sakinalu, and Murukulu are also made in bulk to share across families.However, the demands of modern work schedules have changed how these dishes reach dining tables. Many households now rely on professional cooks and local vendors to prepare authentic festive fare.M Rehani, a home chef who supplies Sankranti delicacies, noted that traditional dishes can be adapted for health-conscious consumers. “We offer different varieties and healthy versions of the snacks. For example, Chekkalu or Murukulu costs ₹450 per kg, but if customers want a healthier version made with ragi and millets, it costs ₹100 to ₹150 or more. We also use jaggery instead of sugar and healthier oils,” Rehani explained.Delivery platforms have enabled city dwellers to enjoy these delicacies without spending hours in the kitchen.B Shivani, a software employee and mother, shared her experience: “I have a son, and I don’t know much about these celebrations. I want him to learn about them, but in my busy schedule, it’s quite difficult. Still, I take out time and follow modern practices without losing the roots of the festival.”



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