Are you curious to know what is makar sankranti? You have come to the right place as I am going to tell you everything about makar sankranti in a very simple explanation. Without further discussion let’s begin to know what is makar sankranti?
Makar Sankranti, a revered festival in India, marks the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makar Rashi). This detailed article offers insights into the significance, traditions, stories, and regional variations associated with Makar Sankranti, elucidating its cultural richness and diverse celebrations.
What Is Makar Sankranti?
Makar Sankranti, also known as Uttarayan, is a festival celebrated on January 14th or 15th, signifying the beginning of longer, brighter days as the sun enters the zodiac sign of Capricorn.
Meaning And Significance Of Makar Sankranti
The term “Makar Sankranti” translates to the sun’s transition into Capricorn. It symbolizes the end of the winter solstice and the commencement of the harvest season.
Makar Sankranti Festival Traditions
- Kite Flying: One of the most popular traditions is kite flying, symbolizing joy and the arrival of spring.
- Bonfires: Lighting bonfires signifies the dispelling of darkness and welcoming the sun’s warmth.
- Feasting: Families prepare traditional sweets like til-gud (sesame and jaggery), khichdi, and various regional delicacies.
Regional Variations In Celebrations
- South India: Known as Pongal in Tamil Nadu, it’s celebrated with fervor, including cooking Pongal (sweet rice dish) and decorating with kolams.
- North India: Uttarayan in Gujarat and Rajasthan involves colorful kite flying competitions and feasting on undhiyu and jalebi.
Story And Legends Of Makar Sankranti
- Mythological Significance: According to Hindu mythology, Sankranti marks the end of an inauspicious phase and the start of an auspicious period.
- Bhishma Pitamah: It is believed that Bhishma Pitamah from the Mahabharata chose this day to leave his mortal coil.
Makar Sankranti Food And Delicacies
- Til-Gud: Sweets made of sesame and jaggery symbolize warmth and sweetness.
- Pongal: A dish made of rice and lentils in South India signifies prosperity and abundance.
Conclusion:
In essence, Makar Sankranti embodies the celebration of harvest, the transition of seasons, and the joy of new beginnings. It brings people together, fostering a spirit of unity, happiness, and gratitude.
This festival, with its diverse customs and regional flavors, signifies the richness of India’s cultural tapestry, inviting everyone to revel in the spirit of togetherness and jubilation.
FAQ
Why Is Makar Sankranti Celebrated?
Makar Sankranti is the celebration of the sun’s journey from the Southern to the Northern Hemisphere and is considered an auspicious time. Makar translates as ‘Capricorn’ and Sankranti means ‘transition’. The astrological configuration on Makar Sankranti is called ‘Maha-snana-yoga.’
Which God Is Worshipped On Makar Sankranti?
The Sun God is worshipped on this day and in particular, farmers pray to Surya Dev for a good harvest. On this day, devotees also worship livestock and prepare sweets with sesame seeds and jaggery.
Why Makar Sankranti Falls On 14th January?
Usually it is held at the start of spring season, usually in January. This year, there is some confusion over the exact date of Makar Sankranti. According to some astrologers, the sun enters the Makara zodiac sign (Capricorn) on January 14 and hence Makar Sankranti falls on that day.
What Is Sankranti In Simple Words?
Sankranti (Sanskrit: सङ्क्रान्ति, romanized: Saṁkrānti) refers to the transmigration of the sun from one zodiac to another in Indian astronomy.
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