Uttarayana — the Sun’s northward journey (why Sankranti is also called Uttarayan)
Explainer • Seasons • Celebration

What is Uttarayana?

On Makar Sankranti, the Sun is described as ending its southward movement (Dakshinayana) and beginning its northward movement (Uttarayana)—towards the Tropic of Cancer. That’s why this festival is also known as Uttarayan. fileciteturn5file0

Dakshinayana
Southward phase (ends at Sankranti). fileciteturn5file0
Uttarayana
Northward phase (begins at Sankranti). fileciteturn5file0
Seasonal feel
Winter easing → healthy spring. fileciteturn5file0
Quick snapshot
Uttarayan = “northward movement”
From
Tropic of Capricorn fileciteturn5file0
Toward
Tropic of Cancer fileciteturn5file0
Month
Pausha fileciteturn5file0
Celebration
Kites + harvest joy
This page is a themed remake of the original “what-is-uttarayaana.html”.

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Meaning in simple words

Dakshinayana

The journey southward, as detailed on the original page, concludes at the Tropic of Capricorn.

Uttarayana

The journey northward commences on Makar Sankranti, heading towards the Tropic of Cancer.

Why “Uttarayan”

The festival is also known as because this shift is the key concept. Uttarayaana. fileciteturn5file0

Original explanation (cleaned up)

During Makarsankranti, the Sun transitions from its southward journey at the Tropic of Capricorn to its northward path towards the Tropic of Cancer in the month of Pausha.

Why it matters (season + mindset)

A straightforward explanation for readers: the shift in direction becomes a representation of new beginnings.

Winter eases

The original page states that the cold winter ends with Makarsankranti and a vibrant spring season begins.

Harvest gratitude

In India, this time is closely associated with harvests as people express gratitude to nature, farmers, and the Sun's rays.

“Good change”

Numerous families view the day as a fresh start—adopting new habits, using kinder words, and performing small acts of charity.

One-line way to say it

Uttarayan is honored as the Sun's "shift towards longer days" - a representation of warmth, rejuvenation, and plenty.

How people celebrate Uttarayan

This section provides valuable context to enhance the overall meaning of the page.

Kite flying

Especially famous in Gujarat—kites, rooftops, snacks, and friendly competition.

  • Choose bird-safe thread
  • Fly in open, safe areas
Sweets & sharing

Sesame and jaggery treats are passed around to spread warmth and kind words.

Try: तिळगुळ घ्या, गोड गोड बोला
Prayer & gratitude

Many communities visit temples, offer prayers, and donate food/grains.

Quick regional note

The word Uttarayan is commonly used for the Makar Sankranti celebration—especially where kite culture is strong. In South India, the same season is celebrated with harvest festivals like Pongal (often multi-day).

Send Uttarayan / Sankranti cards & messages

Kept from the original page: quick CTAs for sharing. fileciteturn5file0

Caption idea: Happy Uttarayan! 🪁 ☀️