14th of January (A Festival)

The Sindhis refer to 'Makar sankranti' as "Utraan". Though the dates of all Hindu Festivals always vary every year, 'Utraan' always falls upon the 14th of January. The Word 'Makara' corresponds with the Zodiac sign 'Capricorn', and during 'Makar Sankranti' the Sun enters the 'Makara Raasi' i.e. the Zodiac sign of Capricorn. 'Uttar' means 'North'. during this time, the Northward Revolution of the Sun begins. Hence Sindhis call it 'Uttraan'.

Because the direction of the wind changes, it is traditional to fly kites on this day. Flying kites is symbolic of Spiritualism. You remain on the ground, while the kite in your hand soars towards the Heavens. During this time, one uses 'Til' or Sesame seeds in a variety of ways, the most popular being the distribution of 'Til laddus', which Sindhis call 'Bhorindas'. It is cold during this time,and sesame seeds have a warmth giving quality, According to Ayurveda, The intake of sesame seeds facilitate smooth Spiritual Practice.

'Utraan' is considered an auspicious time. Bhishma, the hero of the Mahabharata had the boon that he could choose the time of his death. Even though he lay on a bed of arrows, he chose to die after Utraan.