Makar Sankranti is a Hindu festival celebrated in various parts of India and Nepal. It marks the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makara) on its celestial path. Here are some key points about Makar Sankranti:
1. Date and Significance
- Date: Makar Sankranti is observed on January 14th each year.
- Significance: It signifies the end of the winter solstice and the start of longer days. The festival is associated with the harvest season and is celebrated with different customs and traditions across regions.
2. Regional Variations
Makar Sankranti is known by various names in different regions of India and celebrated with unique customs:
- Uttar Pradesh: Known as Khichdi. People take ritual baths in holy rivers and offer khichdi (a dish made of rice and lentils) to the gods.
- Punjab: Celebrated as Lohri the night before Makar Sankranti. People light bonfires, sing, and dance to celebrate the harvest.
- Gujarat and Rajasthan: Known for the vibrant kite flying festival. The sky is filled with colorful kites, and people compete to cut each other’s kites.
- Maharashtra: People exchange sweets made of sesame seeds and jaggery, known as tilgul, and greet each other with the phrase, “Tilgul ghya, god god bola” (Accept these sweets and speak sweetly).
- Tamil Nadu: Celebrated as Pongal, a four-day festival where people cook a special dish called Pongal, offer prayers, and decorate their houses with kolam (rangoli).
- Bihar and Jharkhand: Known as Sakraat or Khichdi. People enjoy various traditional dishes and take holy dips in rivers.
3. Rituals and Traditions
- Kite Flying: Particularly popular in Gujarat, Rajasthan, and parts of North India.
- Holy Baths: Taking dips in sacred rivers such as the Ganges, Yamuna, and Godavari is considered auspicious.
- Feasts and Sweets: Special foods like tilgul (sesame and jaggery sweets), khichdi, and various regional delicacies are prepared and shared.
- Bonfires and Dances: Particularly in Punjab, people light bonfires, dance, and sing traditional songs.
4. Cultural and Social Aspects
Makar Sankranti is not just a religious festival but also a cultural and social event that brings communities together. It is a time for family gatherings, community fairs, and cultural performances.
