Makar Sankranti is a Hindu festival that marks the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makara). It usually falls on January 14th or 15th, and in some years, it may vary slightly due to the position of the sun. The festival is celebrated in various regions of India and is known by different names, such as Pongal in Tamil Nadu, Lohri in Punjab, Bihu in Assam, and Uttarayan in Gujarat.
Key Features of Makar Sankranti:
- Harvest Festival:
- Makar Sankranti is primarily a harvest festival, celebrating the arrival of spring and the harvest of crops.
- Sun’s Movement:
- The festival marks the day when the sun begins its northward journey (Uttarayan) and moves into the zodiac sign of Capricorn.
- Kite Flying:
- Kite flying is a significant tradition during Makar Sankranti, especially in Gujarat. People engage in friendly kite battles, flying colorful kites in the sky.
- Bathing in Holy Rivers:
- Devotees take a holy dip in rivers like Ganga, Yamuna, Godavari, and others to cleanse themselves spiritually. This ritual is considered auspicious on Makar Sankranti.
- Offerings and Prayers:
- People make offerings to the sun god and perform prayers for prosperity and good health. Traditional sweets made of sesame seeds and jaggery, such as tilgul or sesame ladoos, are exchanged.
- Bonfires and Community Celebrations:
- In certain regions, bonfires are lit to symbolize the end of winter and the onset of warmer days. Community gatherings, cultural events, and traditional dance performances are also part of the celebrations.
- Cultural Significance:
- Makar Sankranti holds cultural significance and is celebrated with various customs and rituals across different states. Each region has its unique way of observing the festival.
- Pongal in Tamil Nadu:
- In Tamil Nadu, the festival is known as Pongal, and it is a four-day celebration. Pongal is also the name of a special dish prepared during this time using newly harvested rice, milk, and jaggery.
- Lohri in Punjab:
- In Punjab, Makar Sankranti is celebrated as Lohri, marked by bonfires, traditional dance, and the singing of folk songs. It is particularly significant for farmers.
- Bihu in Assam:
- In Assam, Makar Sankranti is celebrated as Bhogali Bihu, which includes feasting, traditional dance, and community activities.
- Uttarayan in Gujarat:
- In Gujarat, the festival is called Uttarayan, and it is famous for the International Kite Festival, attracting kite enthusiasts from around the world.
Makar Sankranti is a time of joy, gratitude, and community bonding. People express their appreciation for nature’s bounty and look forward to the warmth and prosperity associated with the changing season.
