Makar Sankranti: Chhatarpur's Unique Clay Horse Tradition Linked to Surya Dev

• Chhatarpur, Bundelkhand, celebrates Makar Sankranti by buying and worshipping clay horses, wheels, and sugar sweet balls, unlike the kite-flying tradition in other cities.
• This ancient tradition is believed to signify Surya Dev's horses regaining speed after rest, as Makar Sankranti marks the sun's transition into Makar Rashi.
• The practice is widespread across Bundelkhand, including Chhatarpur, and is also linked to prayers for good harvests and protection from drought.
• Potters create these clay horses, which are bought and worshipped in homes and courtyards, especially on Makar Sankranti, to preserve cultural heritage.
• According to Pandit Ramphal Shukla, families buy one clay horse for each child, and these are kept in homes, particularly those with tiled roofs in rural areas.

Why It Matters: Chhatarpur's Makar Sankranti features a unique tradition of worshipping clay horses, symbolizing Surya Dev's renewed energy.