Makar Sankranti

Hindu festival of Makar Sankranti is observed for celebration of alternation of seasons. In Indian culture, change of seasons is also celebrated with great sanctity and devotion as India is prominent agricultural country. Makar Sankranti is celebrated in many state of India including Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Gujrat , Assam and Orissa.

Date of Makar Sankranti:

It is celebrated on the January 14 th every year. This is decided according to the solar calendar.

Significance of Makar Sankranti:

This festival has more of astrological meaning attached to it. Makar means Capricorn in astrology and Sankranti means transition. North journey of sun towards Capricorn starts from this day. It is called Winter Solstice, geographically. Day and night are equal are equal on this day. After chilly winds of winter, days start getting warmer from this day.

Celebrations of Makar Sankranti:

Makar Sankranti is celebrated in different forms in different states of India . In Uttar Pradesh, thousands of devotees visit the confluence of Rivers Ganga, Yamuna and Sarawati. They take a dip there which is believed to be auspicious. A grand fair is held on this day. People donate something of utility to the needy and poor ones. Sweets prepared from sesame, jaggery, wheat flour and Khoya are made and exchanged with friends and relatives.

In West Bengal , a huge fair is held on Ganga Sagar. River Ganga is the holy river for Hindus. In Tamil Nadu, this day is celebrated as Pongal. This festival is of great importance for the farming community. They cook special dish of rice and pulses which is offered to God after performing rituals.

In Andhra Pradesh, it is celebrated for four days and is called Pedda Panduga. This is a harvest festival. In Maharashtra and Gujrat, this day is celebrated by making sweets from jaggery and sesame seeds and exchanging them with friends and relatives. Kite flying festival is held in Gujrat on this occasion.