Makar Sankranti marks the sun’s transition into Capricorn and is celebrated across India as a harvest festival filled with colour, joy and togetherness. From Uttarayan in Gujarat to Pongal in Tamil Nadu and Magh Bihu in Assam, the day symbolises abundance, gratitude and new beginnings. One of the most joyful traditions associated with Makar Sankranti, especially in western and central India, is kite flying, where rooftops turn into lively social hubs. (Image: Canva)
No kite-flying party is complete without easy, shareable snacks that can be enjoyed between friendly competitions, laughter and cups of hot chai. For Makar Sankranti 2026, here’s a curated list of quick-to-make snacks that strike the perfect balance between festive tradition and modern convenience. (Image: File Pic)
Til Gul Laddoos: A Sankranti classic, til gul laddoos are synonymous with the festival’s message of sweetness and harmony. Made using roasted sesame seeds, jaggery and ghee, these laddoos are nutritious, warming and ideal for winter afternoons. Prepare them a day in advance and store them in airtight containers, they travel well and are perfect for nibbling between kite strings. (Image: Canva)
Chikki Varieties: Crunchy, addictive and festive, chikki is a Sankranti must-have. While peanut chikki is the most popular, you can also prepare til chikki, dry fruit chikki or coconut jaggery chikki for variety. Break them into bite-sized shards so guests can snack easily without leaving the rooftop. (Image: Canva)
Mini Dhokla Bites: Soft, spongy and lightly spiced, mini dhoklas are ideal finger food for a kite-flying party. Serve them with green chutney and sweet tamarind chutney for a flavourful contrast. Since dhoklas are steamed, they feel lighter than fried snacks and keep everyone energised without feeling heavy. (Image: Canva)
Murmura Chaat: When you want something quick and fuss-free, puffed rice chaat is the answer. Toss murmura with chopped onions, tomatoes, roasted peanuts, green chillies, lemon juice and chaat masala. This snack is best prepared fresh and can be customised with sev or pomegranate seeds for added crunch and colour. (Image: Canva)
Sabudana Vada: Though traditionally associated with fasting days, sabudana vadas are a hit at winter gatherings. Crispy on the outside and soft inside, they pair beautifully with hot tea. Make smaller vadas so they’re easier to eat while watching kites soar across the sky. (Image: Canva)
Sweet Corn Chaat: A lighter option for those who prefer mild flavours, sweet corn chaat combines boiled corn kernels with butter, salt, pepper and lemon juice. You can also add finely chopped capsicum or grated cheese for a modern twist. Serve it warm in paper cups for easy handling. (Image: File Pic)
Khajur Pak: Popular in Gujarat, khajur pak is a nutritious sweet made from dates, nuts and ghee. Rich yet wholesome, it’s perfect for winter and provides instant energy during long kite-flying sessions. Slice it into small squares for neat serving. (Image: Facebook)
Masala Mathri: Crispy mathris are ideal make-ahead snacks that stay fresh for days. Flavoured with carom seeds, black pepper and cumin, they pair wonderfully with pickles or mint chutney. Their sturdy texture makes them easy to snack on outdoors. (Image: Canva)
Cheese and Veggie Sandwich Bites: For a kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing option, prepare mini sandwich bites using cheese, butter and finely chopped vegetables. Grill them lightly and cut into small triangles or squares. These are especially popular at mixed-age gatherings where everyone wants something familiar. (Image: Canva)
Til Ke Namakpare: A savoury twist on sesame seeds, til ke namakpare are crunchy, mildly spiced and incredibly addictive. Made with wheat flour and sesame seeds, they’re perfect for balancing out the sweetness of traditional Sankranti treats. (Image: Canva)
Hot Pakoras: No winter celebration feels complete without pakoras. Onion, palak or aloo pakoras are easy to make in batches and taste best when served hot. Pair them with green chutney and steaming cups of chai as the sun begins to set. (Image: Canva)
