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Makar Sankranti

Makar means Capricorn and Sakranti means going from one place to another. As the name suggests Makar Sankranti demarcates the entering of sun from zodiac Sagittarius to zodiac Capricorn. This can also be said as movement of sun from the tropic of Cancer to the tropic of Capricorn.

Celebrated all over the country this festival denoted completion of winters and commemoration of the harvest season in various parts of the country. It is on this day that the majestic Sun God of the Hindus begins his ascendancy and enters the Northern Hemisphere. According to the PURANAS, on this day Sun God goes to meet his son Shani who is considered to be the master of Zodiac Capricorn. They don’t get along well but despite of all the differences and detestation both of them make a point to meet on the same dy evry year.

Also, it is believed that it was on this day that Lord Vishnu decided to culminate the terrors caused by the ASURAS. He destroyed them and buried their heads under the Mandar Parvat. Another reference comes from this day when BHISHMA PITAMAH from the Mahabharta finally decided to leave the mortal coil on this day. Not only are these but a whole lot of stories attached to this angelic day. Just like any other festival, this is also celebrated differently in different parts of the country. In Uttar Pradesh, located in the Northern region it is known as Khichhri. On this day at various places like Prayag, Hardwar, Garh Mukteshwara and many more, ceremonies of holy bathing are conducted. Similarly in Bengal fares are organized along the banks of rivers and massive number of pilgrims takes part in it. In Tamil Nadu it is known by the name of Pongal. It is celebrated for four days where people thank God for bountiful harvest.

In Andhra Pradesh it is celebrated by the name of Pedda Panduga which is a three dat festival and holds immense importance for the local people. In Maharashtra people exchange Til-guds which is another delicious Indian sweet and women are called for get together known as Haldi-Kumkum and are gifted utensils and fruits. In Punjab it is celebrated by the name of Lohari. People organize bonfire and celebrate the day by dancing and meeting the loved ones.

Just like any other festival of the country MAKAR SANKRANTI is celebrated with remarkable rapture and colorful rituals.