Makarsankaranti

Makar Sankranti is a significant Hindu festival celebrated across India and Nepal, marking the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makara). This event signifies the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer days. It usually falls on January 14th or 15th every year, depending on the solar calendar.

Key Highlights of Makar Sankranti:

1. Spiritual Significance: It symbolizes a time of new beginnings, prosperity, and the spread of knowledge and light.

2. Rituals:

People take holy dips in sacred rivers like the Ganga, Yamuna, or Godavari.

Offerings are made to the Sun God (Surya).

3. Festivities:

Kite Flying: A prominent activity in Gujarat and Rajasthan.

Special Dishes: Traditional foods include tilgul (sesame and jaggery sweets), puran poli, and khichdi.

Bonfires and Community Feasts: Common in Punjab (celebrated as Lohri) and Tamil Nadu (as Pongal).

4. Regional Variations:

Pongal in Tamil Nadu.

Lohri in Punjab and Haryana.

Magh Bihu in Assam.

Uttarayan in Gujarat.

Would you like to know how Makar Sankranti is celebrated in a particular region?