India, Jan. 13 -- Makar Sankranti food traditions go far beyond celebration and rituals. The festival arrives during peak winter, a time when the body naturally needs more nourishment to stay active and balanced. Til-gud based dishes have been part of this seasonal approach for generations, chosen not randomly but for the nutritional role sesame seeds play in everyday health.

Sesame seeds have long been part of Indian kitchens, valued for their ability to provide nourishment, strength, and long-lasting energy. Their use in daily cooking grew because they store well and deliver concentrated nutrition, especially useful during colder months. Their ability to store well and deliver concentrated nutrition made them ideal for winter diets. Se...