Makar Sankranti, a Hindu holiday celebrating the entrance of the Sun into the astrological sign of makara, is celebrated all over India with different traditions. But it is especially known for kite flying. In Gujarat the festival is called Uttarayan and is celebrated grandly by flying kites. Kite flying is a major event in the city of Ahmedabad, which holds the annual International Kite Festival as part of the holiday.
Many symbolic reasons for the practice are suggested in popular media, including worship of the Sun, the approach of springtime, hopefulness, spiritual connection between heaven and earth, social cohesion, and getting vitamin D. From a historical perspective, flying kites is an enjoyable pastime that has been integrated into this festive occasion.