Makar Sankranti

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About Makar Sankranti

Makar Sankranti is considered to be the most auspicious days for the Hindus. It is a day when the sun begins its journey northward and enters the Tropic of Capricorn, which is the sign of Makar. The term ‘Makar’ signifies Capricorn and ‘Sankrant’ signifies transition. It falls on the 14th January every year and heralds the arrival of the harvest season in India. In the Hindu calendar Makar Sankranti is celebrated in the month of ‘Magh’. The period is known as Uttarayana Punyakalam. The festival of Makar Sankranti is celebrated with great zeal all over the country. The festival is highly regarded in the states of Maharashtra, Gujarat, Kerela, Bengal and Uttar Pradesh.

The festival of Makar Sankranti is known by different names in different states. It is known as ‘Khichiri’ in Uttar Pradesh, ‘Lohri’ in Punjab, ‘Sakarat’ in Bundelkhand and Madhya Pradesh, ‘Pongal’ in the South and ‘Pedda Panduga’ in Telegu.

Significance of Makar Sankranti

Makar Sankranti holds special significance in the solar calendar as on this day, the duration of the day and night remains equal. There are several important legends and myths associated with the origin of Makar Sankranti. The special significance of this day was recognized even by the Aryans and they largely celebrated the festival of Makar Sankranti. Episode from the Mahabharata also shows the existence of this celebration in earlier times. It is assumed that people who die on this day goes to heaven and is set free from the cycle of rebirth.

Rituals and Celebrations of Makar Sankranti

Devotees celebrate the occasion of Makar Sankranti by taking a holy dip in the rivers like Ganga, Yamuna, Godavari, Krishna, Kaveri and at other holy places in India. It is believed that by taking a bath in the river the soul gets purified and he or she will attain salvation in the process. The sun is worshipped on this day. People chant the Gayatri Mantra and also pray to the Goddess Saraswati –the God of knowledge. Some people also offer prayers to animals particularly, the cow.

Last Updated On: 2011/07/04