Makar Sankranti

A night lit up on Makar Sankranti Uttarayana Festival with Kites and Lights India

It called makar sankranti or a festival of kite flying. when sun go to north pole or in his zodiac sign Capricorn.this festival organized then or every year 14 th January. - panoramio

Festive bites

Samkranti muggulu 2015 (3)

Buffalo fight

Til gud Ladoo

Makar Sankranti is a major Hindu festival celebrated in various parts of the Indian subcontinent to mark the transition of the Sun into Makara (Capricorn), signaling the end of the month with the winter solstice and the start of longer days. This festival is known by various names in different regions of India and is celebrated with diverse customs in various parts of the country.

Etymology

The term Makar Sankranti is derived from two Sanskrit words: Makar, meaning Capricorn, and Sankranti, which refers to the transition. Thus, Makar Sankranti signifies the Sun's transit into the zodiac sign of Capricorn.

Date

Makar Sankranti is one of the few ancient Indian festivals observed according to solar cycles, while most festivals are set by the lunar cycles of the Hindu calendar. It is celebrated on January 14th, but due to the Earth's axial precession, it shifts over the centuries. A few centuries ago, it was celebrated on December 31st.

Celebrations and Customs

Makar Sankranti is celebrated with great fervor across India, with each region having its unique customs and traditions.

Kite Flying

In states like Gujarat and Rajasthan, kite flying is a major part of the celebration. The sky is filled with colorful kites, and competitions are held to see whose kite can stay aloft the longest or cut the most strings of other kites.

Holy Dips

Taking a holy dip in rivers, especially in the Ganges, Yamuna, Godavari, Krishna, and Cauvery, is considered auspicious on Makar Sankranti. Pilgrims flock to places like Haridwar, Prayagraj (formerly known as Allahabad), and Varanasi for this purpose.

Festive Foods

The festival is also associated with the preparation of special foods. Sweets made from sesame seeds (til) and jaggery (gur) are popular in many parts of India. Dishes like khichdi (a mix of rice and lentils) are prepared in the northern regions.

Cultural Significance

Makar Sankranti is not only a celebration of the season's change but also has deep cultural significance. It symbolizes the removal of negative energies and the beginning of a new, auspicious phase. It's a day to pray to the Sun God, Surya, and thank him for the successes and prosperity.

Regional Variations

Makar Sankranti is known by various names across India:

• In Punjab, it is celebrated as Maghi.
• In Assam, it is known as Bhogali Bihu.
• In Tamil Nadu, the festival is celebrated as Pongal.
• In Karnataka, it is called Suggi.
• In Kerala, the festival is known as Makaravilakku at Sabarimala Temple.

Environmental Impact

The festival's kite-flying activity has raised environmental concerns, particularly regarding the use of synthetic manja (kite string) that can harm birds and cause injuries to humans. Efforts are being made to promote the use of eco-friendly materials for kites and strings.

Conclusion

Makar Sankranti marks an important moment in the Hindu calendar and is a time for joyous celebrations across the Indian subcontinent. It brings together various cultural practices and traditions, showcasing the rich diversity of Indian culture.