Makar Sankranti

Makar Sankranti is one of the most ancient and widely celebrated solar festivals in the Hindu calendar. It marks the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign of Makara (Capricorn) and the beginning of the Sun's six-month northward journey, known as Uttarayana.

Significance

Unlike most Hindu festivals which follow the lunar cycle, Makar Sankranti follows the solar cycle. It signifies the end of the winter solstice and the start of longer, warmer days. It is considered a time of rejuvenation, harvest, and spiritual transition.

Key Traditions

• Holy Dip: Taking a ritual bath in sacred rivers like the Ganga, Yamuna, or Godavari is believed to cleanse sins and bring merit.
• Kite Flying: In many regions (especially Gujarat and Rajasthan), the sky is filled with colorful kites, symbolizing joy and the spirit of rising high.
• Til-Gul (Sesame & Jaggery): The consumption of sesame seeds mixed with jaggery is a central tradition. It symbolizes sweetness in speech and the warmth needed during the winter.
• Bonfires: In the Punjab region, the eve of Sankranti is celebrated as Lohri with bonfires and singing.

Regional Names

Makar Sankranti is known by various names across India:

• Pongal: Tamil Nadu
• Magh Bihu: Assam
• Lohri: Punjab
• Maghi: Haryana and Himachal Pradesh
• Poush Sankranti: West Bengal
• Khichdi: Uttar Pradesh and Bihar

Spiritual Aspect

Uttarayana is traditionally considered an auspicious period for spiritual practices and transitions. In the Mahabharata, the patriarch Bhishma chose to wait for the beginning of Uttarayana before leaving his physical body.