Makar Sankranti is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in India. Falling on January 14, 2025, this festival marks the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makara).
The word Sankranti denotes the sun’s transition between zodiac signs in Indian astronomy.
The History and Significance of Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti has roots in ancient Indian traditions and texts. It is deeply tied to the solar calendar and is one of the few Hindu festivals that fall on the same date each year. The festival is celebrated on January 14 every year except in a leap year when it falls on January 15.
Makar Sankranti is devoted to the Sun God or Surya. This day marks the northward journey of the Sun, or Uttarayan, symbolizing longer days and the arrival of warmer months.
The festival symbolizes the starting of a six-month auspicious period for Hindus called the Uttarayana period.
For agrarian communities across India, Makar Sankranti is a time to celebrate a bountiful harvest. It’s a moment to express gratitude to nature, the Sun God (Surya Dev), and livestock that play a crucial role in farming.
Beyond agriculture, the festival is also considered auspicious for new beginnings, spiritual practices, and acts of charity.
Introducing Makar Sankranti to Kids
Enjoy this delightful video about the festival of Makar Sankranti and share it with your kids.
Regional Variations of Makar Sankranti
While the essence of Makar Sankranti remains the same across India, each state adds its unique flavor to the celebrations. From colorful kites soaring in Gujarat’s skies to the sweet aroma of Pongal in Tamil Nadu, the diversity is truly awe-inspiring.
1. Gujarat: Uttarayan and Kite Flying
In Gujarat, Makar Sankranti transforms into Uttarayan, a grand two-day celebration. The word ‘Uttara’ signifies north, and ‘Ayana’ indicates six months.
The skies come alive with vibrant kites, and people gather on terraces, competing to cut each other’s kites while shouting, “Kai Po Che!”.
Special snacks like Undhiyu (a mixed vegetable dish) and Jalebi are savored during this time.
2. Tamil Nadu: Pongal
In Tamil Nadu, the festival is celebrated as Pongal, a four-day event dedicated to thanking nature.
Families cook a special dish called Pongal (a sweet rice preparation) in newly harvested pots, letting it overflow as a symbol of abundance.
Homes are adorned with Kolams (rangoli) made from rice flour, and cows are worshipped as a mark of respect.
In Punjab, the eve of Makar Sankranti is celebrated as Lohri, marking the end of winter and the beginning of the harvest season.
Bonfires are lit, and people gather around to sing folk songs, perform the bhangra dance, and enjoy makki di roti and sarson da saag (corn flatbread and mustard greens).
Makar Sankranti is known as Maghi in Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh.
4. Maharashtra: Tilgul and Sweet Exchanges
In Maharashtra, Makar Sankranti is a day of sweetness and togetherness.
Families prepare Tilgul (sesame and jaggery sweets) and distribute them with the phrase, “Tilgul ghya, god god bola” (“Take these sweets and speak sweetly”).
Women also host Haldi-kumkum gatherings, exchanging gifts and blessings.
5. West Bengal: Poush Sankranti
In West Bengal, the festival is called Poush Sankranti and coincides with the famous Ganga Sagar Mela.
Gangasagar, a pilgrimage site in West Bengal, attracts thousands who take a dip in the Ganges at its confluence with the Bay of Bengal on Makar Sankranti.
Special dishes like Pithas (rice cakes) and sweets made from date palm jaggery are a highlight.
6. Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh: Sankranti
In Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, Makar Sankranti is celebrated with equal fervor. Makar Sankranti is a four-day festival in Andhra Pradesh.
Decorated cows and oxen parade through villages, and people prepare ellu bella (a mixture of sesame seeds, jaggery, coconut, and peanuts) to share with friends and neighbors.
Kite flying is also a common activity in these regions.
7. Assam
The festival is celebrated as Bhogali Bihu. Youngsters build makeshift huts from leaves and bamboo and burn them the next morning.
Interesting Facts about Makar Sankranti
- According to the Mahabharata, Bhishma Pitamah chose to leave his mortal body during Uttarayan, considering it a sacred time for attaining liberation.
- Every twelfth Makara Sankranti, a massive pilgrimage known as Kumbh Mela takes place. People flock to the juncture of the Ganges and Yamuna Rivers to bathe in the holy water after offering their prayers to the sun god.
- As per the Hindu calendar, there are 12 Sankranti in a year.
- On Makar Sankranti, many people take a holy dip at the Sangam, where the Ganga and Yamuna meet.
- People pay respects to livestock and cattle during this occasion, in addition to honoring the Sun God.
- Giving food and clothes to those in need is a common way to show kindness.
- The color Black is deeply associated with Makar Sankranti. Black is recognized as an absorber of the Sun’s rays, and Makar Sankranti marks the commencement of the Sun’s journey toward the Northern Hemisphere. It is believed that wearing black attire helps absorb the Sun’s positive energy while also providing warmth during the chilly winter celebration days.
- The word ”Pongal” refers to a traditional rice dish made during the festival with newly harvested rice. In Tamil, ”Pongal” means ”to boil over”.
- Makar Sankranti is celebrated by flying kites, which allows people to enjoy the sun’s rays after winter, marking the arrival of spring.
Conclusion: A Festival of Unity and Renewal
Makar Sankranti is much more than a harvest festival; it is a celebration of hope, renewal, and shared joy. Its pan-India appeal lies in its ability to bring people together, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries.
So, this January, whether you’re flying kites, savoring Tilgul, or lighting a bonfire, remember to cherish the bonds and blessings that make this festival truly extraordinary.
