Makar Sankranti is a vibrant Indian festival celebrated with immense joy and enthusiasm across the country. This festival marks the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (called ‘Makar Rashi’ in Hindi), which is why it is named Makar Sankranti. It also signifies the end of the chilly winter months and the beginning of longer and warmer days as the Sun’s journey progresses towards the Northern Hemisphere. Let’s dive into the fascinating aspects of this festival!
The Science Behind Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti is tied to the movement of the Sun, making it one of the few Indian festivals based on the solar calendar rather than the lunar calendar. It occurs every year on or around 14th January. This day marks an important astronomical event: the Sun begins its northward journey, called ‘Uttarayan’. In ancient times, this transition was considered highly auspicious, as it marked a change towards a more favourable time of the year for farming and other activities.
A Festival of Harvest
Makar Sankranti is primarily a harvest festival. Farmers across India rejoice as their hard work during the previous months yields bountiful crops. The festival is a way to express gratitude to nature for its abundance and to celebrate the fruits of their labour. People prepare delicious food items using freshly harvested ingredients like sugarcane, sesame seeds (til), and jaggery (gur).
How Is Makar Sankranti Celebrated Across India?
One of the most remarkable things about Makar Sankranti is the variety of its celebrations. Different regions of India observe it in unique ways, and local traditions add colour and charm to the festival.
1. Uttar Pradesh and Bihar
In these states, people take a holy dip in rivers like the Ganges and Yamuna, as it is believed to wash away sins. They also prepare a sweet dish called ‘Tilkut’ made of sesame seeds and jaggery.
2. Gujarat
The skies of Gujarat come alive with kites on Makar Sankranti! The International Kite Festival held in Ahmedabad is a major attraction, with people flying colourful kites to mark the occasion. Known locally as ‘Uttarayan’, this festival is celebrated with feasts and festivities.
3. Tamil Nadu
In Tamil Nadu, Makar Sankranti is celebrated as Pongal, a four-day festival. Families boil milk with rice and jaggery in a pot, letting it overflow as a symbol of prosperity. People also decorate their homes with ‘kolam’ (rangoli) and thank the Sun God for a good harvest.
4. Punjab
In Punjab, Makar Sankranti coincides with Lohri, a festival that involves lighting bonfires, singing, dancing, and relishing foods like roasted peanuts, sesame sweets, and popcorn. It’s a joyous occasion to mark the end of the cold season.
5. Maharashtra
People in Maharashtra celebrate by exchanging sweets made of sesame seeds and jaggery, accompanied by the phrase ‘Tilgul ghya, god god bola’, which means ‘Eat these sweets and speak sweetly’.
Customs and Rituals
Makar Sankranti is a day filled with customs and traditions. Here are some common ones:
- Bathing in Holy Rivers: Many devotees take a dip in rivers like the Ganges, Yamuna, or Godavari. This is considered a sacred act that purifies the soul.
- Kite Flying: Kite flying is not just a fun activity but also a symbolic way to reach out to the Sun. The skies turn into a beautiful sea of colours with kites of various shapes and sizes.
- Bonfires: In some regions, bonfires are lit, and people gather around them to sing, dance, and celebrate.
- Special Foods: Traditional sweets made from sesame and jaggery, like ‘til ladoo’ and ‘chikki’, are enjoyed. These foods provide warmth and energy during the winter season.
The Spiritual Significance of Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti is not just a harvest festival; it also holds deep spiritual importance. During this time, the Sun God is believed to bestow blessings upon the earth, bringing health, happiness, and prosperity. According to Hindu mythology, this period is considered auspicious for starting new ventures or activities.
Sadhguru, a renowned Indian spiritual leader, emphasises that Makar Sankranti is a time for inner transformation. As the Sun moves northward, it symbolises enlightenment and a shift towards a more elevated state of being.
Did You Know?
- Makar Sankranti is known by different names in various parts of India, such as Pongal in Tamil Nadu, Lohri in Punjab, and Magh Bihu in Assam.
- The festival is also celebrated in Nepal as ‘Maghe Sankranti’.
- The International Kite Festival in Gujarat attracts participants from all over the world.
- Sesame seeds and jaggery are used extensively because they provide warmth and energy during the winter months.
A Festival for Everyone
What makes Makar Sankranti truly special is its universal appeal. Whether it’s through kite flying, feasting on sweets, or taking part in rituals, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. It’s a time to come together with family and friends, celebrate the joys of life, and look forward to a prosperous year ahead.
So, as you celebrate Makar Sankranti this year, remember its rich traditions, spiritual significance, and the unity it brings among people. Why not try making a simple til ladoo or fly a colourful kite to join in the festivities?
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