We all know that Makar Sankranti is the biggest festival in India and that too in the southern part of India, it is celebrated with more enthusiasm. But have you ever wondered What is Makar Sankranti, what is the significance of it, and what is the history behind it? Let’s learn about the real meaning behind this festival.
What Is Makar Sankranti?
Makar Sankranti is a colorful festival that celebrates the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign marking winter’s end and the commencement of summer days. Sankranti is undoubtedly one of the most ancient and culturally significant harvest festivals. It implies the celebration of the abundance of nature and prosperity. Whether participating in kite flying contests or sharing delicious sweets with the rest of the community puts a smile on people’s faces, and brings everyone together.
Sankranti Festival Importance
Sankranti festival importance is more than simply marking the auspicious times of the year for celebrations. But it represents spiritual rejuvenation, gratitude, and reconciliation. As the sun moves northward, known as Uttarayan, it is believed to bring positive energy and prosperity. The farmers celebrate the occasion in appreciation of the plentiful harvest and everyone celebrates the onset of new times full of possibilities.
Why Makar Sankranti is Celebrated
To understand the Makar Sankranti rituals, we must explore the rich spiritual and cultural history that is attached to them. It is a significant occasion when people believe that the sun is about to enter the northern hemisphere and this phenomenon brings with it a relief of hope and prosperity. Numerous texts from ancient civilizations, and cultural patterns, indicate that this time is associated with good beginnings. It’s also a time for family to get together, exchange gifts, and eat traditional dishes, which represent unity and gratitude.
How Do We Celebrate Makar Sankranti?
Each region of India has its special way of celebrating the festival:
Kite Flying: This is one of the most anticipated parts of the Makar Sankranti. It becomes a day to spend with family and friends outdoors and let loose throngs of creative hand-painted kites into the sky. If you visited India during sankranti then don’t miss visiting the Kite festival Hyderabad this January.
Traditional Foods: Food items prepared from sesame seeds and jaggery, which include tilgul and chikkis, are made and then distributed to represent love and bonding.
Bonfires and Festivities: People often light bonfires in secluded areas, and sing and dance in circles around them to wash away bad energy.
Holy Dips: Many people hold the firm belief that immersing in sacred rivers such as the Ganga will make them sin-free and add blessings to their lives.
Celebrate Makar Sankranti in India
If you’re planning to celebrate the Makar Sankranti festival in India, now is the time to book your flights from IAD to HYD or from any part of the USA to India to immerse yourself in the rich celebrations.
Now as you know, what is Makar Sankranti – it is much more than just a festival. It’s a celebration of life, light, and gratitude. Whether it’s the spiritual significance of the sun’s transition or the simple joy of flying kites with loved ones, every aspect of this festival brings people together in harmony. This Sankranti, embrace the warmth of the festival, savor traditional delicacies, and create unforgettable memories with your family.
Happy Sankranti!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the 3 Days of Sankranti 2025?
The 3 days of Sankranti 2025: Bhogi (Jan 13) marks a fresh start with home cleaning and bonfires. Makar Sankranti (Jan 14) is celebrated with sun worship, kite flying, and feasting. Kanuma (Jan 15) honors cattle, with farmers decorating and feeding them special treats.
How do we celebrate Makar Sankranti in different parts of India?
Makar Sankranti is celebrated with kite flying, special feasts, and rituals. In Punjab, it’s observed as Lohri, in Tamil Nadu as Pongal, and Gujarat as Uttarayan. Common practices include preparing sweets with sesame and jaggery, lighting bonfires, and worshiping the sun.
What is Makar Sankranti and why is it celebrated?
Makar Sankranti marks the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign Capricorn (Makar) and the beginning of longer days, symbolizing positivity, prosperity, and new beginnings. It’s celebrated to honor the sun god and express gratitude for a bountiful harvest.
How do we celebrate Makar Sankranti in different parts of India?
Makar Sankranti is celebrated with kite flying, special feasts, and rituals. In Punjab, it’s observed as Lohri, in Tamil Nadu as Pongal, and Gujarat as Uttarayan. Common practices include preparing sweets with sesame and jaggery, lighting bonfires, and worshiping the sun.
Why is kite flying associated with Makar Sankranti?
Kite flying during Makar Sankranti symbolizes joy and freedom. The activity also coincides with the sun’s northward movement, and flying kites in the clear sky are believed to be a way of offering prayers to the sun god.
What are famous Makar Sankranti food items?
Popular Makar Sankranti delicacies include tilgul (sesame-jaggery sweets), pongal, khichdi, puran poli, and ladoo, symbolizing warmth, unity, and gratitude for the harvest.
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