Makar Sankranti the harvest festival, is marked by men, women and children wearing colorful new clothing; visiting near and dear ones. On this auspicious day, people in Karnataka distribute Yellu and bella (Sesame seeds and Jaggery) and greet with the words, “Ellu bella thindu, Olle Maathu Aadu” (Eat ellu bella and speak only good). The significance of this exchange is that sweetness should prevail in all the dealings.

Pongal is one of the main dishes during this festival. One also finds a few delicacies prepared with avrekai, a seasonal favorite during Sankranti.