Gujarati · Culture & Society
uttarayan
Uttarayan (kite festival)
The January kite festival when Gujarat's skies fill with color.
ઉત્તરાયણે કાઈ પો છે! ગુંજે છે.
At Uttarayan the cry kai po chhe rings out!
The term "ઉત્તરાયણ" (uttarayan) is derived from Sanskrit, referring to the 'northward movement' of the sun, and marks a significant harvest festival.
Used in both formal and informal contexts, particularly during the kite-flying festival in January, it represents joy across Gujarati communities.
Numerous references in folk songs and poetry discussing the festival's significance and kite-flying traditions.