What is Makar Sankranti? Significance of Makar Sankranti
What is Makar Sankranti?
Makar Sankranti is one of the most important and widely celebrated festivals in India. It marks the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makar), signaling the end of winter and the arrival of longer days. This festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm across various states of India, albeit with regional variations in customs and traditions.
Celebrated on January 14th or 15th every year, Makar Sankranti is essentially a harvest festival that honors the Sun God (Surya) and the bounty of nature. It is a day of thanksgiving and marks a fresh start with hopes of prosperity, health, and happiness.
Significance of Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti holds immense cultural, religious, and agricultural significance in Indian society. Here are some key aspects:
1. Astronomical Significance
Makar Sankranti marks the transition of the sun into Capricorn (Makar Rashi) in the Hindu solar calendar. This movement is crucial as it indicates the beginning of longer daylight hours and the end of the harsh winter season. It is believed that from this day onwards, the sun's northward journey (Uttarayan) starts, bringing warmth and prosperity.
2. Harvest Festival
This festival coincides with the harvest season in India, particularly in states like Punjab, Haryana, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu. Farmers express their gratitude for a good harvest and pray for future abundance. The festival celebrates the fruits of hard work and the abundance of crops like sugarcane, wheat, and mustard.
3. Religious Importance
Devotees take holy dips in rivers like the Ganges, Yamuna, Godavari, and Krishna, believing that this purifies their soul and washes away sins. Many perform rituals and offer prayers to Surya, the Sun God, seeking blessings for health and prosperity.
4. Cultural Celebrations
Makar Sankranti is famous for its kite-flying tradition, especially in Gujarat and Maharashtra. People gather on rooftops and open spaces, flying vibrant kites that fill the sky with color. The festival is also associated with sweets made from sesame seeds (til) and jaggery, symbolizing warmth and bonding.
5. Regional Variations
- In Punjab and Haryana, the festival is known as Lohri, celebrated with bonfires, dancing, and singing folk songs.
- In Tamil Nadu, it is called Pongal and involves cooking a special dish named 'Pongal' to honor the sun and cattle.
- In Assam, it is celebrated as Bhogali Bihu, focusing on feasting and community gatherings.
How is Makar Sankranti Celebrated?
Preparations and Rituals
The day starts early with devotees taking a ritual bath in sacred rivers. People dress in new clothes and visit temples. Offerings of sweets, fruits, and flowers are made to Surya. Houses are cleaned and decorated to welcome positive energy.
Food and Sweets
Traditional delicacies include sweets made of sesame seeds and jaggery like tilgul in Maharashtra and til ke ladoo in North India. These sweets are shared among family and friends with the saying, "Tilgul ghya, god god bola," meaning “Take this sweet and speak sweetly.”
Kite Flying
Kite flying is a major highlight. It symbolizes reaching out to the sky and celebrating the sun’s journey. The colorful kites create a festive atmosphere, and competitive kite battles take place.
FAQs About Makar Sankranti
- Q1: Why is Makar Sankranti celebrated?
- Makar Sankranti is celebrated to mark the sun’s transition into Capricorn, signaling longer days and the end of winter. It is also a harvest festival giving thanks for a good crop season.
- Q2: When is Makar Sankranti celebrated?
- It is celebrated every year on January 14th or 15th, depending on the solar calendar.
- Q3: What foods are traditionally eaten on Makar Sankranti?
- Sweets made from sesame seeds and jaggery, such as tilgul and til ke ladoo, are traditional foods eaten during this festival.
- Q4: What is the significance of kite flying on Makar Sankranti?
- Kite flying symbolizes the joy of longer days and reaching out to the sun. It is a popular tradition in many Indian states, especially Gujarat and Maharashtra.
- Q5: Are there any regional names for Makar Sankranti?
- Yes, it is called Lohri in Punjab and Haryana, Pongal in Tamil Nadu, and Bhogali Bihu in Assam, among others.
Conclusion
Makar Sankranti is a festival that beautifully blends spirituality, agriculture, and community celebration. It is a reminder of the cyclical nature of seasons, the importance of the sun in sustaining life, and the joy of sharing and togetherness. Whether you celebrate it with kite flying, delicious sweets, or ritual baths, Makar Sankranti carries the universal message of hope, renewal, and gratitude.
