15th January - Makar Sankranti

How is Makar Sankranti related to Capricorn?

"Makar Sankranti" indeed signifies the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makar in Hindi) as part of its celestial journey. The festival marks this specific astronomical event, and the term itself reflects the combination of "Makar" and "Sankranti."

Why is Makar Sankranti called Uttarayan?

Makar Sankranti, also known as Uttarayan, indeed symbolizes the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn. This festival is associated with the idea of embracing increasing sunlight and marks the beginning of longer days as winter gives way to spring. It is a time for new beginnings, and various regions in India celebrate it with unique traditions, customs, and festivities.

What is the significance of flying kites on Makar Sankranti?

Flying kites is a significant and vibrant tradition associated with Makar Sankranti in many parts of India. The sight of colorful kites filling the skies is a spectacular feature of the festival. This tradition is not just a form of entertainment but also carries cultural and symbolic significance.

The act of flying kites during Makar Sankranti is often seen as a way of celebrating the free spirit and the joy of life. The colorful kites soaring high represent the freedom of the soul and the optimism that comes with the changing season. In some places, there are also kite-flying competitions where participants showcase their skill in handling and maneuvering kites.

The lively atmosphere created by the multitude of kites in the sky adds to the festive spirit of Makar Sankranti, making it a unique and joyful celebration.

What is the reason behind celebrating Makar Sankranti?

Some important customs associated with Makar Sankranti are:-
Taking holy dips in rivers, especially the Ganges, is a significant ritual during this festival. Many believe that bathing in the sacred rivers during this auspicious time cleanses them of sins and purifies the soul.

Lighting bonfires, known as "Lohri" in some regions, is another common tradition during Makar Sankranti. People gather around these bonfires, sing traditional songs, and make offerings to the fire. It symbolizes the end of winter and the beginning of longer days.

Special dishes are prepared during Makar Sankranti, with various regions having their unique recipes. In many places, sesame seeds and jaggery-based sweets are commonly made and shared among family and friends.

These customs and rituals vary across different states and communities, adding richness and diversity to the celebration of Makar Sankranti. The festival is a wonderful reflection of cultural traditions, spirituality, and the joy associated with the changing seasons.

How Makar Sankranti festival is celebrated in different cities ?

Makar Sankranti is celebrated with diverse traditions and customs in different cities across India. The ways in which the festival is observed can vary based on regional cultures and practices.

• People in Uttar Pradesh celebrate the festival with great enthusiasm. The holy city of Varanasi witnesses a large number of devotees taking holy dips in the Ganges. Kite flying is a popular tradition, and the sky is filled with colorful kites.

• Makar Sankranti is known as Uttarayan in Gujarat. The International Kite Festival is a major attraction in cities like Ahmedabad and Vadodara, where the sky becomes a canvas of vibrant kites. 

• Pongal, the Tamil version of Makar Sankranti, is celebrated with a four-day harvest festival. Homes are decorated, and special dishes like Pongal (a dish made with newly harvested rice) are prepared. Bhogi Pongal involves the burning of old belongings and materials in a bonfire.

• In Punjab, the festival is known as Maghi. People take a dip in the holy sarovars (ponds) at places like Anandpur Sahib. Lohri, celebrated just before Makar Sankranti, involves lighting bonfires and singing and dancing.

• In Assam, the festival is known as Bhogali Bihu. Bonfires, traditional folk dances like Bihu, and feasting on traditional Assamese dishes are part of the celebrations.

• The festival is celebrated with great fervor in Rajasthan. People exchange til (sesame) and jaggery, and kite flying is a popular activity. Jaipur, the capital city, witnesses colorful kites adorning the sky.

• Makar Sankranti is celebrated as a kite-flying festival in cities like Mumbai and Pune. People exchange tilgul (sweets made of sesame and jaggery) and offer prayers. In rural areas, there is a tradition of organizing fairs.

How do you value your own culture and tradition?

Makar Sankranti provides a wonderful opportunity for people to honor their cultural heritage and connect with their roots. Dressing in traditional attire is a common practice during the festival, adding to the sense of cultural identity and celebrating the richness of regional diversity.

Participating in rituals that have been passed down through generations fosters a strong sense of continuity and helps preserve cultural practices. Whether it's taking part in religious ceremonies, preparing traditional dishes, or engaging in customs like flying kites or lighting bonfires, these activities strengthen the cultural fabric of communities.

Makar Sankranti, like many other festivals, serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and passing on cultural traditions to future generations. It is a time for families and communities to come together, share in the festivities, and celebrate the values and customs that have been cherished over time.

Which food is associated with Makar Sankranti?

Sweets and treats play a central role in the Makar Sankranti and Pongal celebrations, adding a delightful touch to the festivities. Here are some traditional sweets and treats that are commonly enjoyed during these celebrations:

Tilgul (Sesame and Jaggery Sweets), Pongal, Sesame Seed Ladoo, Jaggery-based Sweets, Sugarcane Delights, Coconut-based Sweets, Kheer.

What is the importance of Makar Sankranti to Indian culture?

Makar Sankranti festival indeed reflects the rich tapestry of Indian culture, intertwining agricultural significance with spiritual and traditional elements.

Makar Sankranti emphasizes the importance of the sun in agriculture, marking a key transition in the solar calendar. It symbolizes the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer, warmer days. The festival holds cultural, religious, and social significance, showcasing the diverse ways in which communities celebrate and express gratitude for the harvest and the changing seasons.

The various customs, rituals, and festive activities associated with Makar Sankranti not only strengthen cultural bonds but also connect people with nature and the cycles of agriculture. It's a time of joy, renewal, and optimism as communities come together to celebrate the sun, harvest, and the promise of a new beginning.

Happy Makar Sankranti

May the spirit of Makar Sankranti bring prosperity, joy, and abundance to you as well. May the coming days be filled with positivity, growth, and moments of celebration. Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful and auspicious Makar Sankranti, and may the spirit of this festival stay with you throughout the year!