Makar Sankranti is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in India, marking the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign Capricorn (Makar). This shift heralds the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer days.
The festival usually falls on January 14th each year and is celebrated with much joy across different parts of India. Makar Sankranti is known by various names, such as Pongal in Tamil Nadu, Uttarayan in Gujarat, and Lohri in Punjab. It is a harvest festival that not only celebrates the bounty of crops but also serves as a time to renew bonds with family and friends through the exchange of sweets and wishes.
Key Points:
- Makar Sankranti marks the Sun’s transition into Capricorn.
- It celebrates the harvest and marks the onset of longer days.
- The festival fosters community bonding and mutual well-wishing.
Why Do We Celebrate Makar Sankranti?
Makar Sankranti holds great significance in Indian culture due to its association with harvest and the movement of the Sun, which is believed to have astrological and spiritual implications. Celebrating this festival is akin to paying homage to the elements that sustain life, particularly the Sun.
According to Hindu mythology, Makar Sankranti is the day when Lord Surya (the Sun God) visits his son, Shani (Saturn). Hence, the festival symbolizes the healthy father-son relationship. People celebrate the day by flying kites, cooking special dishes like tilgul (sesame sweets), and taking a holy dip in rivers like the Ganga and Yamuna.
Another key reason for celebrating Makar Sankranti is its agricultural importance. After a long winter, this festival indicates the harvesting of crops and the beginning of a new season. Families and communities come together to thank nature for its abundance and share their joy.
How Is Makar Sankranti Celebrated Across India?
The celebrations of Makar Sankranti vary across India, each region adding its own cultural flavor to the festival. In Gujarat, the day is marked by the grand Uttarayan festival where people fly colorful kites. The skies are filled with kites of all shapes and sizes, symbolizing joy and freedom.
In Tamil Nadu, this festival coincides with Pongal, a four-day harvest celebration where rice and milk are boiled together and offered to the Sun God. In Maharashtra, families exchange tilgul (sesame and jaggery sweets) and say, “Tilgul ghya, goad goad bola” (Take sesame sweets and speak sweet words).
In West Bengal, the festival is known as Poush Sankranti, and it includes a special fair called Ganga Sagar Mela, where thousands of pilgrims take a holy dip at the confluence of the Ganges and the Bay of Bengal.
What Is the Astrological Significance of Makar Sankranti?
Astrologically, Makar Sankranti is a day when the Sun enters the Capricorn zodiac sign, known as “Makar” in Sanskrit. This marks the transition of the Sun from the southern to the northern hemisphere (Uttarayan), which is considered highly auspicious in Hindu astrology.
It signifies the end of the dark days of winter and the beginning of a period filled with light and positivity. Many believe that any work or journey undertaken during this period leads to success and prosperity.
Moreover, the Sun’s movement into Capricorn marks the end of the Malmas (inauspicious period) and paves the way for marriage ceremonies and other significant events.
Reminder: Astrological interpretations of this festival might differ according to various schools of thought, but the Sun’s transition holds universal importance in Indian tradition.
Why Is Flying Kites So Popular on Makar Sankranti?
Kite flying is synonymous with Makar Sankranti, especially in Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan. But why is this activity so prevalent? One reason could be the symbolism of reaching new heights and freeing oneself from the past.
Flying kites is also associated with the idea of competing in a friendly manner while experiencing the joy of freedom. In some regions, it is believed that the act of standing under the sun while flying kites helps the body soak in much-needed Vitamin D after the cold winter months.
In Gujarat, people prepare for weeks in advance, crafting or purchasing kites. Families and friends come together on rooftops, and the skies become a beautiful display of colors and patterns. The thrill of cutting another person’s kite and shouting “Kai Po Che!” adds excitement to the festivities.
How Are Sweets Like Tilgul Important to the Festival?
Sweets play a pivotal role in Makar Sankranti celebrations. Tilgul, made from sesame seeds and jaggery, is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it an ideal winter treat. Both sesame and jaggery are known to generate warmth in the body, which is why they are commonly consumed during this season.
The act of exchanging sweets among neighbors and friends is a way of spreading joy and renewing bonds. The significance of sweets in the festival extends beyond taste; they symbolize the sweetness of relationships and the hope that everyone will speak kind and sweet words throughout the year.
Note: Be mindful of allergies when offering or consuming sesame-based sweets like tilgul.
Table 1: Celebrations of Makar Sankranti in Different States of India
| State | Festival Name | Key Traditions |
| Gujarat | Uttarayan | Kite flying and feasts |
| Tamil Nadu | Pongal | Offering rice dishes to the Sun God |
| Maharashtra | Makar Sankranti | Exchange of tilgul and sweets |
| Punjab | Lohri | Bonfires, dance, and music |
| West Bengal | Poush Sankranti | Ganga Sagar Mela and holy dips |
How Does Makar Sankranti Impact Social and Cultural Bonds?
Makar Sankranti is more than just a festival; it is an opportunity to reconnect with loved ones. The exchange of sweets, greetings, and wishes fosters feelings of community and togetherness.
In many regions, family gatherings are organized where everyone cooks and eats together. For farmers, this is a time to thank nature and celebrate their hard work. The festive atmosphere encourages people to put aside their differences and come together in the spirit of joy and gratitude.
Table 2: Benefits of Celebrating Makar Sankranti
| Aspect | Benefit |
| Social | Strengthens family and community bonds |
| Cultural | Preserves traditional customs and rituals |
| Astrological/Spiritual | Aligns with auspicious planetary movements |
How Can You Send “Wishes:4pxhzemcynw= Makar Sankranti”?
One of the most important aspects of the Makar Sankranti festival is the exchange of wishes. With the digital age, it has become increasingly easy to send heartfelt greetings to friends and family who may not be physically close.
Sending “wishes:4pxhzemcynw= Makar Sankranti” can be as simple as a personalized message or an e-card. Popular apps and websites offer various templates and graphics to make your wishes stand out. The key is to ensure that your message conveys warmth, love, and positivity, which is what the festival truly embodies.
Conclusion
Makar Sankranti is a beautiful festival that celebrates not only the harvest but also the strengthening of social and familial bonds. From flying kites and taking holy dips to sharing sweets like tilgul, every aspect of the festival is imbued with significance.
Whether you are celebrating in person or sending “wishes:4pxhzemcynw= Makar Sankranti” online, the festival encourages positivity, community, and gratitude. By understanding the various customs and traditions, you can appreciate the depth and richness of Makar Sankranti and make your celebration even more meaningful.
FAQs
- What is the significance of Makar Sankranti?
Makar Sankranti marks the Sun’s transition into Capricorn and celebrates the harvest season. - How is Makar Sankranti celebrated in different parts of India?
It is celebrated with kite flying in Gujarat, Pongal in Tamil Nadu, and holy dips in rivers in West Bengal. - Why are sesame sweets like tilgul important to Makar Sankranti?
Tilgul is consumed for its warmth-inducing properties and symbolizes the sweetness of relationships. - What are the astrological beliefs associated with Makar Sankranti?
The festival marks the Sun’s northward journey, which is considered auspicious for new beginnings. - How can I send Makar Sankranti wishes online?
You can send wishes through messages, e-cards, or social media platforms with heartfelt greetings.
