"Makar Sankranti marks the end of winter as well as the beginning of longer days on account of the sun's northward journey hence, this period is also known as Uttarayan and is considered to be very auspicious. It is celebrated across the country with different names like Pongal in Tamil Nadu,Makara Villaku in Kerala, Sukarat in Bihar and Jharkhand, Poush Sankranti in Bengal, Northern India as Lohri and Uttarayan in Gujarat. Along with other countries of world as vernal equinox in Japan, Balloon festival in Australia and others.
To inculcate the respect for diversity and appreciation of India's rich culture in the learners Balloon Day was conducted in Gajera Vidyabhavan Utran Prep section. The atmosphere at prep Campus was wonderfully festive as all the little Gajerians gathered at the school campus. Learners came in Rainbow colour dresses. They made bird shaped balloons with colorful feathers and red beaks. They also showed their creativity and artistic talent by adding colors and glitters to make the balloons more vibrant. The whole school premise was elegantly decorated with balloons. They were given a brief idea about the’ Sankrant’festival and the food items eaten during Uttarayan like Undhiyu ,til laddoos and chikkis.
In that our principal ma'am explained learners about our Indian culture how to celebrate Uttarayan, told mythological stories behind Makar Sankranti and explained about the importance of Daan in details. She addressed learners on bird caring tips, safety during Kite Flying, work to be done along with elders after the festival. They stressed on Do's and Don'ts to be followed during Uttarayan. They also played a small skit on 'Save birds'. The day was celebrated traditionally and spread message of the Safe Uttarayan.
The festive was celebrated with traditional gaiety and fervor. Uttarayan is one such festival of worldwide significance with all the facets of any festival such as astronomical, sociological, economic, religious and spiritual.
"Fly high on your dreams and aspirations like a kite, but stay grounded on your values like the string that holds the kite." Have a happy and safe Makar Sankranti ...!
“Imagination is to love what gas is to the balloon — that which raises it from the earth.” — Letitia Elizabeth Landon. Let the joy of the festival fill your heart with warmth..... Happy Makar Sankranti!!
