What is Makar Sankranti?

Each year on January 14th, Makar Sankranti is more than just a festival on the Hindu calendar, it is a deeply symbolic and joyous event marking Uttarayana, the sun’s journey northwards.

Makar Sankranti signals the sun’s transition into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makara), bringing longer, brighter days—a celestial phenomenon that has been celebrated for centuries. This is also a time to honor the Sun God (Surya), whose life-giving rays nurture the earth and ensure a fruitful harvest.

The festival coincides with the harvest season, making it a moment of gratitude for nature’s abundance. It is also seen as a day of spiritual cleansing, with millions of devotees taking holy dips in sacred rivers like the Ganges, Yamuna, and Godavari. These sacred rituals are believed to purify the soul & welcome prosperity

How is Makar Sankranti Celebrated?

India’s diversity shines brightly during this festival, with unique traditions across the country

Kite Flying: In states like Gujarat and Rajasthan, vibrant kites fill the skies. It’s more than a pastime it’s a celebration of freedom, joy, and camaraderie.
Traditional Foods: Sweet delicacies like tilgul (sesame and jaggery sweets) and savory dishes like khichdi are shared among families and friends, fostering a spirit of togetherness.

Community Giving: Acts of charity, from distributing food to donating clothes, embody the festival’s ethos of compassion.

Regional Variations: While it’s known as Makar Sankranti in most parts of India, the festival is celebrated under different names and customs. In Tamil Nadu, it’s Pongal, a four-day festival featuring rituals and offerings. Punjab comes alive with Lohri, where people dance around bonfires. Assam celebrates Magh Bihu, with feasts and traditional games.

At its heart, Makar Sankranti is a celebration of nature’s cycles and humanity’s connection to the earth, the sun, and each other. It’s a day to reflect, rejoice, and embrace the brighter days ahead.