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What is Makar Sankranti?
Makar Sankranti is a significant Hindu festival celebrated across India and Nepal. It marks the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makara), signaling the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer days. This astronomical event is celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm as a harvest festival.
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The name “Makar Sankranti” comes from the Sanskrit words “Makara” (Capricorn) and “Sankranti” (transition). It is one of the few Hindu festivals aligned with the solar calendar, making its date fixed on January 14th or 15th each year. The festival’s alignment with celestial phenomena highlights its importance in ancient Indian astronomy and culture.
Why is Makar Sankranti Celebrated?
The festival holds immense cultural and spiritual significance. It signifies the Sun’s journey towards the northern hemisphere, a period known as Uttarayana. This is considered an auspicious time in Hinduism, symbolizing prosperity, positivity, and enlightenment. Makar Sankranti also coincides with the harvest season, making it a time to express gratitude for nature’s bounty.\
The transition from Dakshinayana (southern solstice) to Uttarayana marks a shift from longer nights to longer days. This change is interpreted as a metaphorical victory of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. Farmers celebrate Makar Sankranti to thank the Sun God for a bountiful harvest and to pray for continued prosperity.
Rituals and Traditions of Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti is celebrated in diverse ways across India, reflecting the country’s rich cultural tapestry. Here are some common rituals and traditions:
- Kite Flying: One of the most popular activities during Makar Sankranti is kite flying. The skies are adorned with vibrant, colorful kites, symbolizing freedom and joy. In Gujarat, the festival is synonymous with the International Kite Festival, attracting enthusiasts from around the world.
- Holy Baths: Devotees take a dip in sacred rivers like the Ganges, Yamuna, or Godavari to cleanse their sins and seek blessings. The holy dip, known as “Snan,” is especially significant during this time and is considered highly auspicious.
- Feasting on Delicacies: Makar Sankranti is a time to indulge in traditional foods made with sesame seeds (til) and jaggery (gur). These ingredients are believed to provide warmth and energy during winter. Popular dishes include tilgul laddoos, gajak, and khichdi.
- Charity and Donations: Donating food, clothes, and other essentials to the underprivileged is a common practice. This act of kindness, known as “daan,” is believed to bring good karma and blessings.
- Bonfires and Cultural Performances: In some regions, people light bonfires, dance, and sing traditional songs to celebrate the festival. This is particularly common in Punjab and Haryana, where the preceding day is observed as Lohri.
Regional Names and Celebrations of Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti is celebrated under various names across India, each with its unique customs:
- Pongal (Tamil Nadu): A four-day harvest festival featuring the preparation of a special dish called “Pongal,” made with rice and jaggery.
- Uttarayan (Gujarat): Known for its grand kite festivals and feasts.
- Lohri (Punjab and Haryana): Celebrated a day before Makar Sankranti with bonfires, dancing, and singing.
- Magh Bihu (Assam): Marked by feasting, traditional games, and building makeshift huts called “Meji.”
- Sankranthi (Andhra Pradesh and Telangana): A three-day festival involving cattle decoration, rangoli, and special delicacies.
Is Makar Sankranti a Public Holiday?
Yes, Makar Sankranti is a public holiday in several Indian states, including Gujarat, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu. The festival’s importance as a cultural and agricultural event leads to widespread observance. Schools, colleges, and offices often remain closed, allowing people to celebrate with their families.
In some states, the holiday spans multiple days, reflecting the festival’s regional diversity. For instance, Pongal in Tamil Nadu is celebrated over four days, each dedicated to specific rituals.
Astrological and Spiritual Significance
From an astrological perspective, Makar Sankranti is a time of great spiritual importance. The transition of the Sun into Capricorn is believed to enhance positive energy, making it an ideal time for starting new ventures and seeking blessings. In Hindu mythology, this period is associated with the Sun God, Surya, and his journey towards enlightenment.
The festival is also linked to the Mahabharata, where Bhishma Pitamah chose to leave his mortal body during Uttarayana, believing it to be the most auspicious time for liberation (moksha).
Environmental and Social Impact of Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti’s emphasis on nature and agriculture underscores the importance of sustainable practices. By celebrating the harvest, the festival reminds us of our dependence on the environment and the need to preserve it. The tradition of sharing sweets and donating to the needy promotes social harmony and inclusivity.
Modern-Day Celebrations
In today’s digital age, Makar Sankranti has embraced modernity while retaining its traditional essence. Social media platforms are flooded with festive greetings, and online kite-flying tournaments have gained popularity. Despite technological advancements, the core values of gratitude, charity, and unity remain central to the celebrations.
