Bath with sesame seeds
On this day, married women are advised to take a holy bath early in the morning. Black sesame seeds and a few drops of Ganga water are added to the bathing water. This bath is believed to remove negative energy and bring purity to the mind and body.
Turmeric and vermilion tradition
In many regions, women celebrate a turmeric and vermilion gathering. Married women apply turmeric and vermilion to each other and wish for lifelong happiness and good fortune. This tradition symbolises unity, respect, and shared prayers.
Wearing auspicious clothes
Women usually wear full traditional dress on Makar Sankranti. New clothes or yellow and red colours are considered especially auspicious. These colours are linked to positivity, warmth, and good luck.
Donation of marital items
Charity plays an important role on this day. Married women donate items linked to married life such as bangles, bindis, vermilion, mehendi, and combs. These are given to other married women or to priests as a sign of goodwill.