Makar Sankranti: A Celebration of Harvest, Sun, and New Beginnings
Makar Sankranti, a Hindu festival, is celebrated in India to mark the winter solstice and the beginning of the solar month Makara (Capricorn). It is one of the most important festivals in India, observed with great joy and fervour. Here are some facts about Makar Sankranti in 500 words with images:
1. Significance:
Makar Sankranti signifies the end of the inauspicious period of Kantakaa and the beginning of the auspicious Uttarayana. It is believed that the Sun enters the Capricorn zodiac sign (Makara) on this day, starting its northward journey. This northward movement of the Sun is associated with longer days, warmer weather, and the end of the harvest season.
2. Traditions and Rituals:
Taking a holy dip: People take a holy dip in rivers like Ganga, Yamuna, and Godavari during Makar Sankranti. It is believed that this dip washes away one's sins and brings good luck and prosperity.
Bonfires: Bonfires are lit on the eve of Makar Sankranti, symbolizing the burning of negativity and the ushering in of positivity. People offer prayers to the fire god Agni and seek his blessings.
Tilgul: Tilgul, a sweet dish made of sesame seeds, jaggery, and ghee, is an essential part of Makar Sankranti celebrations. It is believed that eating tilgul brings good health and prosperity.
Kite flying: Kite flying is a popular tradition associated with Makar Sankranti, especially in North India. The sky is filled with colourful kites of all shapes and sizes on this day. People compete with each other to fly their kites higher and cut the strings of other kites.
Rangoli: Women draw colourful rangolis in front of their homes on Makar Sankranti. Rangolis are believed to bring good luck and prosperity to the household.
Gifts and sweets: People exchange gifts and sweets with their loved ones on Makar Sankranti. This tradition strengthens bonds and spreads joy.
3. Regional variations:
Makar Sankranti is celebrated with different names and traditions in different parts of India. Some of the regional variations include:
Pongal in Tamil Nadu: Pongal is a four-day harvest festival celebrated in Tamil Nadu during Makar Sankranti. It is a time for thanksgiving to the Sun god Surya for a bountiful harvest.
Lohri in Punjab: Lohri is a bonfire festival celebrated in Punjab on the eve of Makar Sankranti. It is a time for庆祝农收获和冬季的结束。
Bihu in Assam: Bihu is a harvest festival celebrated in Assam during Makar Sankranti. It is a time for feasting, dancing, and merrymaking.
4. Makar Sankranti in Odisha:
In Odisha, Makar Sankranti is known as Makara Chaula. It is celebrated with great joy and fervour across the state. People take holy dips in rivers like Mahanadi and Baitarani. Bonfires are lit, and tilgul is offered to the fire god Agni. Kite flying is also a popular tradition in Odisha during Makar Sankranti.
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