More Than a Harvest Festival: The True Spirit of Makar Sankranti
There is much more to Makar Sankranti than a simple harvest celebration. It symbolises fresh beginnings, brighter days, and the simple joy of watching kites rule the winter sky. Moreover, it marks a shift in energy—one that feels lighter and full of hope. Over the years, Bollywood has beautifully captured this festive mood through music, moving effortlessly from lively rooftop scenes to moments of quiet reflection. Here is a curated list of Hindi film songs that truly echo the emotion and enthusiasm of Makar Sankranti.
Timeless Classics That Define Sankranti
“Dheel De De Re Bhaiya” – Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam (1999)
To begin with, this evergreen favourite is drenched in nostalgia. Driven by folk rhythms and playful lyrics, it perfectly reflects the chaos and joy of families flying kites together. Even today, it remains an authentic Sankranti anthem that instantly transports listeners to sunlit rooftops.
Songs Rooted in Culture and Deep Emotion
“Manjha” – Kai Po Che! (2013)
Set against the vibrant backdrop of Ahmedabad, Manjha captures the very soul of kite-flying culture. At the same time, it goes beyond celebration. The song reflects friendship, ambition, and heartbreak. Much like a kite’s journey, it is beautiful, fragile, and unpredictable.
“Rut Aa Gayi Re” – 1947 Earth (1998)
In contrast, this gentle and soulful melody celebrates seasonal change and renewed hope. Its soft rhythm aligns seamlessly with Sankranti’s deeper meaning—the sun’s transition and the promise of rebirth and positivity.
Festive Joy with a Contemporary Touch
“Udi Udi Jaye” – Raees (2017)
Moving to modern favourites, Udi Udi Jaye stands out as a contemporary Sankranti anthem. The song brought kite-flying back to the big screen in spectacular style. Set against Gujarat’s colourful skyline, it blends romance, friendly rivalry, and festive cheer with ease.
“Ambarsariya” – Fukrey (2013)
Although not directly linked to kite-flying, Ambarsariya adds a relaxed and youthful vibe to Sankranti playlists. As a result, it works perfectly for laid-back evenings and post-kite-flying rooftop gatherings.
Fearless Energy, Fire, and Freedom
“Patakha Guddi” – Highway (2014)
Finally, Patakha Guddi captures the soul of Sankranti through its fearless and uplifting energy. It speaks of freedom, self-discovery, and flying without hesitation—values that resonate deeply with the spirit of the festival.
Music That Soars Alongside the Kites
Ultimately, Makar Sankranti is not just about flying kites. It is about embracing change, letting go of the past, and rising above limitations. These Bollywood songs reflect joy, nostalgia, resilience, and hope. Timeless in emotion and rooted in tradition, they remind us that every new season brings a chance to soar higher.
So this Sankranti, turn up the music, look up at the sky, and let your spirit fly free. 🪁
