An integral aspect of celebrating Sankranti is Sakkare acchu or sugar moulds that also have a connection with children.

A row of white figurines – a small temple, the traditional shanka and chakra, dolls, peacocks and more are a common sight in Bengaluru as the harvest season is celebrated. Come Jan 14/15, it is Makara Sankranti and the festivities of yellu bella and sakkare acchu is part of the celebrations.

What makes this fading tradition important is that when made at home, it uses just sugar and squeeze of a lime with water. Store made variants are said to have chemicals and artificial colours.

The acchu is used as a way to ward of the evil eye for small children and families continue the tradition of doing this every festival.

I spent an afternoon with Geeta Rao, a 65 year old Bengaluru citizen who continues the tradition of making the sakkare acchu herself not just for Sankranti but also important occasions like weddings at home.

Read the full story that first appeared in The First Post dated Jan 15, 2022 here: