Welcome Lykkers! Makar Sankranti is one of India’s most cherished festivals, celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm. It marks a significant astronomical event – the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makara).

This solar movement, known as Uttarayan, signifies the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer days, symbolizing positivity, renewal, and prosperity, observed on January 14 or 15 annually.

Makar Sankranti: Here's how Makar Sankranti is celebrated in different Indian states

Video by WION

Astronomical Importance

Makar Sankranti is one of the few Hindu festivals celebrated according to the solar calendar. It marks the Sun’s northward journey, or Uttarayan, which is considered highly auspicious in Hindu mythology. This celestial event is associated with the arrival of warmer days, signaling the end of the harsh winter season. It also marks the beginning of the harvest season, making it a joyous occasion for farmers across India.

Regional Variations and Celebrations

Makar Sankranti is celebrated in diverse ways across India, reflecting the country’s rich cultural tapestry.

Pongal in Tamil Nadu: In Tamil Nadu, Makar Sankranti is celebrated as Pongal, a four-day festival. The highlight is the preparation of Pongal, a sweet dish made from freshly harvested rice, milk, and jaggery, offered to the Sun diety. Houses are adorned with intricate rangoli designs, and animals are decorated to their contribution to agriculture.

Lohri in Punjab: In Punjab, the festival is celebrated as Lohri, a vibrant celebration involving bonfires, folk songs, and dances like Bhangra and Gidda. Lohri marks the harvest of sugarcane and other crops, symbolizing abundance and gratitude.

Uttarayan in Gujarat: Makar Sankranti is known as Uttarayan in Gujarat, where kite flying is the main attraction. The skies are filled with colorful kites, and people engage in friendly competitions. Traditional dishes like undhiyu (a mixed vegetable curry) and sesame-based sweets are savored.

Magh Bihu in Assam: In Assam, the festival is celebrated as Magh Bihu or Bhogali Bihu, focusing on community feasts and bonfires. Villagers build temporary huts called meji, which are later burned as a mark of gratitude for a bountiful harvest.

Sankranti in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh: In these southern states, Makar Sankranti is celebrated by exchanging gifts and sweets made from sesame and jaggery. Houses are decorated with colorful rangoli, and prayers are offered for prosperity.

Spiritual Significance

Makar Sankranti is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology and spirituality. It is believed to be the day when Lord Surya, the Sun diety, visits his son Shani. This symbolizes harmony and forgiveness. The festival is also associated with Bhishma Pitamah from the Mahabharata, who chose to leave his mortal body during Uttarayan, believing it to be the most auspicious time.

A common tradition on this day is taking a holy dip in sacred rivers like the Ganga, Yamuna, and Godavari. It is believed that bathing in these waters on Makar Sankranti washes away sins and paves the way for spiritual liberation.

Culinary Delights

Food plays a central role in Makar Sankranti celebrations. The festival is synonymous with dishes made from sesame seeds (til) and jaggery (gur), ingredients believed to provide warmth and energy during winter. Special sweets like tilgul laddoos, chikkis, and pithas are prepared and exchanged as a gesture of goodwill. Regional delicacies like khichdi in Uttar Pradesh and undhiyu in Gujarat add a unique flavor to the festivities.

Symbolism and Lessons

Makar Sankranti is more than just a harvest festival. It is a celebration of renewal, hope, and unity. The festival teaches us to embrace change and look forward to brighter days. Its emphasis on charity and sharing reminds us of the importance of compassion and community.

As we fly kites, share sweets, and come together to celebrate, Makar Sankranti serves as a beautiful reminder of the enduring bond between humanity and nature. It is a time to express gratitude for the past and welcome the future with open arms.