15 January - Makar Sankranti

 

 

 

 

Makar Sankranti is a Hindu festival that celebrates the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of Makara (Capricorn). It usually falls on January 14th, although the date can vary slightly. The festival marks the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer days.

Key features of Makar Sankranti include:

1. Harvest Festival: Makar Sankranti is primarily a harvest festival, celebrating the abundance of crops. It is observed in different forms across various regions of India, with different names and customs.

2. Kite Flying: Kite flying is a significant tradition during Makar Sankranti, especially in states like Gujarat and Rajasthan. People engage in friendly kite-flying competitions, and the sky is filled with colorful kites.

3. Bonfires: In some regions, people light bonfires during Makar Sankranti, symbolizing the end of winter and the arrival of longer days.

4. Special Foods: Various special foods are prepared during the festival, often using newly harvested crops. In many regions, people prepare and share sweets made from sesame seeds, jaggery, and other ingredients.

5. Holy Dip: Taking a holy dip in rivers, especially the Ganges, is considered auspicious on Makar Sankranti. Pilgrims gather at sacred riverbanks to bathe and offer prayers.

6. Religious Significance: Makar Sankranti holds religious significance, and people often visit temples to seek blessings for the new season and express gratitude for the harvest.

Different states in India have their unique ways of celebrating Makar Sankranti, and the festival is known by various names, such as Pongal in Tamil Nadu, Magh Bihu in Assam, and Uttarayan in Gujarat. The diversity in celebrations reflects the cultural richness of the country.