Makar Sankranti

Makar Sankranti

India is known to be a land of festivals. Just as the year begins, Makar Sankranti is waiting for the whole country to rejoice. Now the question that arises is what does Makar Sankranti signify for us? As all of us would have come across the phenomenon of winter solstice during our Geography lectures, this day marks the harvesting season(Lohri) in India as per the climatic conditions after solstice. 

It is a usual notion in our country to associate every festivity with some or the other forms of worship. Akin to this common practice, Makar this one is dedicated to our source of light and energy, the Sun God(also referred to as Surya Dev). The date for this festival oscillates between 14th and 15th of January and people indulge in grandiose celebrations. Not only Indians, but the Nepalese population also celebrates this day with equal enthusiasm! 

Why only mid January? This doubt is sure to creep in the minds of inquisitive readers. So here we go. As per the Hindu calendar which designates years as Vikram Samvat, the montj of Magha collides with January. Considering the astrological aspect, this auspicious day is known to mark the Sun's transition into the Capricorn celestial path. 

The most common way of celebrating is having a kite flying competition(often associated with prizes) and sweets prepared using sesame seeds(til). Bonfires are also common while the tradition of eating “khichdi" is so predominant that this festival has even been pet-named Khichdi by a large chunk of Indians! There is no extent as to which we can attach our emotions to these celebrations. Friends and relatives meet and greet in an atmosphere of festive fanfare.

As we know that regional languages have their own symbolism for festivals. Likewise, Makar Sankranti is stated by different names in different states. Isn't it quite interestingly related to the concept of unity in diversity? Of course! Maharashtrians celebrate it as Pedda Pandaga while North Indians simply call it Maghi. The list is just endless.

Above all, this day bids a lovely goodbye to the winter season and welcomes days with longer duration of sunlight. The essence of celebrating Makar Sankranti lies in doing good deeds(referred to as Punya) and embracing the Northward journey of the Sun. Hope this festival brings happiness and harmony everywhere!