Maker Sankranti Festival : Celebration, History & Significance

🌞 Makar Sankranti – The Harvest Festival

Introduction:
Makar Sankranti is a major Hindu festival celebrated across India to mark the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makar Rashi). It is a festival of harvest, gratitude, and the beginning of longer, warmer days.

When it is celebrated:

• Celebrated every year on 14th or 15th January, depending on the solar calendar.
• Unlike many Hindu festivals, Makar Sankranti follows the solar cycle, so its date is almost fixed.

Why it is celebrated:

• It marks the end of winter and the start of longer days as the Sun begins its northward journey (Uttarayan).
• It is also a festival of harvest and thanksgiving for farmers.

How it is celebrated:

1. Puja and Rituals:
   • People take holy dips in rivers like Ganga, Yamuna, and Godavari, as it is believed to wash away sins.
   • Devotees offer prayers to the Sun God (Surya) for prosperity and good health.
2. Traditional Foods:
   • Special dishes made of til (sesame) and gur (jaggery) like tilgul laddoo, chikki, and gajak are prepared.
   • In Maharashtra, people exchange sweets with the words “Tilgul ghya, god god bola” (accept these sweets and speak sweetly).
3. Kite Flying:
   • In states like Gujarat and Rajasthan, kite flying is a major attraction, symbolizing joy and freedom.
4. Regional Celebrations:
   • In Tamil Nadu, it is celebrated as Pongal.
   • In Punjab, it is called Lohri (a day earlier) and Maghi (the next day).
   • In Assam, it is known as Magh Bihu.

Significance:

• Symbol of new beginnings, positivity, and prosperity.
• Teaches unity and sharing, as people distribute sweets and celebrate together.
• Marks an important astronomical event – the Sun’s northward journey (Uttarayan).

Global Celebration:
Makar Sankranti is celebrated not only in India but also in Nepal, Bangladesh, and by Indian communities worldwide, spreading joy and cultural traditions.

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✨ In short: Makar Sankranti is the festival of the Sun and harvest, celebrated with kites, sweets, prayers, and unity, marking the arrival of longer days and new beginnings.