Makar Sankranti is a Hindu festival celebrated in various parts of India, marking the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makara) and the end of the winter solstice. It usually falls on January 14th or 15th each year. The festival signifies the arrival of longer days and is often associated with harvest season in many regions.
Different states in India celebrate Makar Sankranti with unique customs and traditions:
- Maharashtra: In Maharashtra, people exchange sweets made of sesame seeds and jaggery, such as tilgul and gul poli. The traditional greeting, “Tilgul ghya, goad goad bola,” meaning “Take this sweet and speak sweetly,” reflects the spirit of warmth and community.
- Gujarat and Rajasthan: Known as Uttarayan in these states, Makar Sankranti is famous for the vibrant kite-flying tradition. The skies are filled with colorful kites, and people participate in kite-flying competitions, turning the day into a joyous celebration.
- Tamil Nadu: The festival is celebrated as Pongal, a four-day harvest festival dedicated to the Sun God. The centerpiece of the celebration is the preparation of the dish Pongal, made from newly harvested rice, milk, and jaggery, which is offered to the Sun God as thanks for a bountiful harvest.
- Punjab and Haryana: Makar Sankranti coincides with Lohri in these states. Lohri is celebrated with bonfires, folk songs, and dances like Bhangra and Gidda. The festival is particularly significant for farmers, marking the end of winter and the arrival of longer days.
- West Bengal: Known as Poush Sankranti, the festival involves the preparation of special sweets like Pithe and Patishapta, made from rice flour, coconut, and jaggery. People also take holy dips in rivers like the Ganges to purify themselves and start the new year on a fresh note.
- Andhra Pradesh and Telangana: The festival is celebrated as Pedda Panduga or Makar Sankranti, and is marked by a three-day celebration involving feasts, cattle decoration, and traditional games. People prepare and share sweets made from jaggery and sesame seeds.
- Assam: Known as Magh Bihu or Bhogali Bihu, the festival celebrates the end of the harvest season with feasts, bonfires, and traditional games. Rice cakes, sesame sweets, and other delicacies are prepared and enjoyed during this time.
Cultural Significance:
Makar Sankranti is not only a celebration of the harvest but also a time for social bonding, charity, and spirituality. Many people perform rituals and offer prayers to deities, seeking blessings for prosperity and well-being. The festival also emphasizes the importance of sharing, as people distribute sweets and other food items to friends, neighbors, and those in need.
Overall, Makar Sankranti is a festival which time for family gatherings, feasting, and giving thanks for the bountiful harvest.