Pictured: The Kumbh Mela (Maha Kumbh Mela) at Prayaga Sangam, a large Makar Sankranti pilgrimage which takes place every 12 years. Photo by Lokankara via Wikicommons.
Makara Sankranti (also known as Maghi) is a Hindu festival day celebrating the sun and the beginning of longer, brighter days after the winter solstice passes. It falls on January 15 and is observed with colorful decorations, kites, and lanterns, festive meals, and bonfires. Some children celebrate by going house to house, singing and asking for treats. Many people observe the holiday with ritual bathing in sacred bodies of water.
URI's grassroots peacebuilding groups, called Cooperation Circles, are formed by members of at least three different religions, spiritual expressions, or Indigenous traditions. Learning about each other's holidays is one way to build bridges and show mutual respect. See more ways URI members are working towards interfaith understanding and dialogue.