Place: Kollur Campus

Date: 11th January 18 

Objective: To understand the cultural importance of the rituals and festivity

Makar Sankranti (also known as Makara Sankranti or Maghi) is a festival day in the Hindu calendar, in reference to deity Surya (sun). It marks the beginning of the harvesting season and is an onset of the Spring. It is celebrated by different names in various parts of the country such as Lohri by north Indian Hindus and Sikhs, Makara Sankranti (Pedda Pandaga) in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, Sukarat in central India, Magh Bihu by Assamese, and Pongal by Tamils.

Our PP geckos celebrated this festival through a special assembly organised for Sankranthi where our PP geckos came in colourful dresses and carried a sweet to share with their friends. Facilitators decorated amphitheatre with colourful rangoli and flowers. Geckos were instated about the facts and celebration of Makar Sankranti. Our grade 6 to 9 geckos spread the festive colours by traditionally decorating the school premises with colourful Rangoli designs depicting the significance of the festival with the help of Ayyammas who were a part of their respective teams helping and explaining them the concept and importance of various designs. While the girls were busy decorating the surroundings and showcasing the artistic skills in order to Win the Inter-Tribe Rangoli Competition, the boys showcased their concentration skills by flying the kites along with the drivers who helped them learn the skills and participated as their team members for the competition. The primary school geckos were the cheering their respective tribes by motivating them and keeping the spirit of competition alive. The Rangoli competition was won by Sphinx, Dragons and Pegasus were awarded the 2nd and 3rd place respectively. Kite flying was won by Sphinx, followed by Dragons and Griffins in the 2nd and 3rd places respectively. Geckos enjoyed spreading the colours of joy while learning the traditionality of the festival.

Some snaps from the event: