makar-sankranti

Celebrating Makar Sankranti: A Guide to the Festival and Its Traditions

Makar Sankranti is a Hindu festival that is celebrated in various parts of India. It typically falls on January 14th or 15th and marks the beginning of the sun’s northward journey, also known as the transition of the sun into the Makara (Capricorn) zodiac.

This festival is a celebration of the sun and the harvest season, and it is a time for people to give thanks for the blessings of the previous year and to pray for a good year ahead.

On Makar Sankranti, people typically participate in a variety of rituals and traditions, including the flying of kites, the exchange of sweets and gifts, and the offering of prayers at temples.

In some regions, it is also traditional to take a dip in holy rivers as a way to purify oneself and seek blessings.

Makar Sankranti Deity

The primary deity worshipped during Makar Sankranti is the sun god, Surya. He is revered as the creator and sustainer of the universe, and other deities may also be worshipped depending on the region and the local traditions.

Taking a dip in the holy river Ganges on Makar Sankranti is believed to bring blessings and purification, and the festival is full of legends and stories associated with it.

Makar Sankranti is a time to celebrate the abundance and goodness of the earth, and people typically prepare a variety of traditional dishes for the festival.

Makar Sankranti Dishes

Til Ladoo, Pitha, Gajak, Puran Poli, and Khichdi are some of the sweet and savory dishes that are often served on Makar Sankranti.

Makar Sankranti wishes and messages are also exchanged between friends and family during the festival.

These wishes can be in the form of text messages, emails, social media posts, or handwritten notes, and they are typically used to convey good wishes and blessings for the festival.

Here are a few unique and interesting Makar Sankranti wishes and messages that you can use to celebrate the festival: “May the brightness of the sun and the warmth of the harvest season bring joy and prosperity to your life. Happy Makar Sankranti!”

Conclusion

So, as you can see, Makar Sankranti is a festive and special festival that is celebrated with joy and enthusiasm all over India.

Whether you are celebrating with traditional dishes, exchanging wishes, or participating in rituals, there are plenty of ways to get involved in the festivities and to experience the flavor and richness of this special festival.