Makar Sankranti Rangoli
Makar Sankranti Kab Hai
India is a land of festivals, each reflecting the country’s rich cultural heritage and unique traditions. One such significant festival is Makar Sankranti, celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion. It marks the harvest season and holds both religious and astronomical importance.
When is Makar Sankranti 2025?
In 2025, Makar Sankranti will be celebrated on Tuesday, January 14. Every year, this festival marks the transition of the Sun from the zodiac sign Sagittarius (Dhanu Rashi) to Capricorn (Makar Rashi). It signifies the Sun’s movement towards the northern hemisphere, a shift from darkness to light.
Astronomical Significance of Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti has profound astronomical importance:
- Transition of the Sun into Capricorn: On this day, the Sun enters Capricorn, marking the end of winter and the gradual increase in daylight hours.
- Beginning of Uttarayan: From this day, the Sun moves northward, a period considered auspicious and holy.
- Harvest Season: This time signifies the beginning of the harvest season, a time of joy and celebration for farmers.
Religious and Cultural Importance of Makar Sankranti
The festival has been mentioned in ancient religious texts and is celebrated across India in various names and forms.
Religious Significance
- Holy Bath and Charity: Taking a dip in sacred rivers like the Ganga and Yamuna on Makar Sankranti is believed to cleanse sins and purify the soul.
- Act of Giving (Daan): Donating items such as sesame seeds, jaggery, blankets, and food on this day is considered highly virtuous.
- Worship of the Sun God: The festival is dedicated to the Sun God, symbolizing gratitude for life-giving energy.
Cultural Significance
Different Names Across Regions:
- Pongal: In Tamil Nadu, it is celebrated as Pongal.
- Lohri: In Punjab and Haryana, it is known as Lohri.
- Uttarayan: In Gujarat, it is called Uttarayan.
- Bhogi: In Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, it is celebrated as Bhogi.
Kite Flying Festivals: In Gujarat and Rajasthan, the skies are filled with colorful kites, making the festival vibrant and exciting.
Traditions and Rituals of Makar Sankranti
The festival is marked by unique traditions and customs in different regions, showcasing India’s diversity and unity.
Significance of Sesame (Til) and Jaggery (Gur)
Sesame and jaggery hold a special place in Makar Sankranti celebrations. They are not only nutritious but also symbolize warmth and togetherness.
- Til-Gur Ladoos: These are prepared and shared with family and friends.
- Saying: "Til-Gur Khao, Aur Meetha-Meetha Bolo" (Eat sesame and jaggery, and speak sweetly) conveys the essence of the festival.
Holy Bath and Worship
- Millions of devotees take a holy dip in sacred rivers such as Ganga, Yamuna, and Godavari at prominent places like Prayagraj, Haridwar, and Varanasi.
- This day is particularly significant during the Kumbh and Ardh Kumbh festivals.
Games and Cultural Activities
- Kite Flying: In states like Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Maharashtra, kite flying is the main attraction.
- Folk Songs and Dances: Punjab and Haryana witness traditional Bhangra and Gidda performances on this occasion.
Scientific Significance of Makar Sankranti
From this day onward, days begin to grow longer, signifying the increasing influence of the Sun’s energy. Consuming sesame and jaggery during the cold season keeps the body warm, making the festival beneficial for health as well as tradition.
Modern Celebration of Makar Sankranti
In today’s times, Makar Sankranti is celebrated both traditionally and communally. Various activities, including community feasts, kite flying competitions, and cultural events, are organized. The festival promotes love, harmony, and togetherness.
Ways to Celebrate Makar Sankranti in 2025
- Relish Traditional Foods: Enjoy delicacies like til-gur ladoos, khichdi, and other festive dishes.
- Donate: Offer food, clothes, and money to those in need.
- Spend Quality Time with Family: The festival’s essence lies in sharing happiness with loved ones.
- Take Care of Health: Consume nutritious foods and stay warm during the winter season.
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