Introduction
 |
| Makar Sankranti on child with kite |
A harvest celebration called Makar Sankranti heralds the arrival of spring and the end of winter. Every year, on January 14 or 15, it is observed when the sun enters the Capricorn zodiac sign.
 |
| Makar Sankranti |
The Sanskrit terms "Makara," which denotes Capricorn, and "Sankranti," which means "transition," are the source of the name "Makar Sankranti." In addition to these names, the event is also referred to as Pongal in Tamil Nadu, Uttarayan in Uttar Pradesh, and Bhogali Bihu in Assam.
 |
| Makar Sankranti on kite |
Date and time of Makar Sankranti 2023 in India:
Date: Sunday, January 15, 2023
Time: 8:45 AM to 5:40 PM IST
The time of Makar Sankranti may vary slightly depending on your location in India. For example, in Kolkata, the festival will begin at 9:00 AM and end at 6:00 PM IST
 |
| Makar Sankranti Celebration with joy |
Celebrations
Every area has its own unique traditions and customs for celebrating Makar Sankranti. Among the most widespread traditions are:
 |
| Makar Sankranti Celebration with Foods |
- Holy river bathing: On Makar Sankranti, people wash in holy rivers throughout much of India. This is said to purify both the body and the soul and bring luck in the next year.
- Praying to the sun god: Makar Sankranti is a solar festival, hence on this day, many people pray to the sun god. Normally, this is accomplished by illuminating diyas (lamps) or by presenting water to the sun.
Makar Sankranti with sweets - Kite flying: Kite flying is a well-liked Makar Sankranti practise, particularly in northern India. Streamers and tassels in various colours are frequently used to adorn the kites.
Makar Sankranti with kites - Eating traditional food: On Makar Sankranti, you should indulge in traditional dishes like khichdi (a rice and lentil meal), jaggery (a form of sugar manufactured from sugarcane), and til (sesame seeds). These dishes are said to bring luck and wealth in the next year.
Importance
In many civilizations, Makar Sankranti is a significant celebration. It's a time to rejoice in the passing of winter and the arrival of spring, a season of rebirth and optimism. Additionally, family and friends might gather together to celebrate during the event. It's a good moment to look back on the year that was and to set plans for the future.
Messages of rebirth and optimism
Many themes of regeneration and optimism are communicated during Makar Sankranti. The celebration heralds the end of winter and the arrival of spring, when nature reawakens. The new year should be anticipated with hope and excitement at this time. The sun deity, who is revered as a source of life and light, is also honoured throughout the celebration. This serves as a reminder that there is always hope, even in the worst of circumstances.
 |
| Makar Sankranti on peoples |
Social cohesion
During Makar Sankranti, societal peace is encouraged. People from various walks of life can gather and celebrate at this time. It is also a moment to reflect on the value of giving and showing compassion to others. The celebration serves as a reminder of our interconnectedness and the need for cooperation in order to improve the planet
Conclusion
There are millions of people all around the world who participate in the celebration of Makar Sankranti, a lovely and significant event. It's a time to rejoice in the passing of winter, the arrival of spring, and the promise of hope and rebirth that a new year brings. Additionally, it is a time to gather together with loved ones and friends and to keep in mind how important it is to give and care for others.
There are various materials online and in libraries that you may use to learn more about Makar Sankranti. Local businesses or community centres may also have information about the festival.
 |
| Makar Sankranti with respect |
Here are some more information about Makar Sankranti.
A harvest celebration called Makar Sankranti heralds the arrival of spring and the end of winter. Every year, on January 14 or 15, it is observed when the sun enters the Capricorn zodiac sign.
In India, Nepal, and other countries in South Asia, Makar Sankranti is a very important event. Some groups in the Middle East and Southeast Asia also observe it.
The celebration is marked by a number of traditions and rites, such as taking holy baths in rivers, praying to the sun deity, and flying kites.
Family and friends join together to celebrate the beginning of the new year during Makar Sankranti. The traditional dishes khichdi (a rice and lentil dish), jaggery (a type of sugar derived from sugarcane), and til (sesame seeds) are also enjoyed at this period.
The celebration of Makar Sankranti is one of rebirth and optimism. It's a moment to rejoice that winter is over and spring is finally here. Making resolutions for the next year and reflecting on the last one are also appropriate now.
During Makar Sankranti, societal peace is encouraged. People from various walks of life can gather and celebrate at this time. It is also a moment to reflect on the value of giving and showing compassion to others.
0 Comments