Sankranti, also known as Makar Sankranti, is a significant Hindu festival celebrated in India and Nepal. It marks the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of Makara (Capricorn) on its celestial path. The festival is observed with great fervor and enthusiasm in various parts of the country, with different regions having their own unique ways of celebrating this auspicious occasion.
When Is the Festival Celebrated?
Sankranti falls on the 14th of January every year, according to the Gregorian calendar. However, the date of the festival may vary slightly each year as it is determined by the solar calendar based on the position of the sun in the zodiac sign of Capricorn. The festival marks the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer days, symbolizing the onset of spring and a new harvest season.
Significance of Sankranti
Sankranti holds great significance in Hindu culture and is considered a time of new beginnings and renewal. It is believed that the sun’s transition into Capricorn brings prosperity and good fortune to people’s lives. The festival is also associated with the harvest season, as farmers start harvesting their crops and offer thanks to the sun god for a bountiful yield.
One of the most important rituals of Sankranti is taking a holy dip in the sacred rivers, such as the Ganges, Yamuna, and Godavari. Devotees also offer prayers and perform pujas to seek blessings for a prosperous year ahead. Kite flying is another popular tradition during Sankranti, symbolizing the victory of good over evil and the freedom of the soul.
In Maharashtra, Sankranti is celebrated as Makar Sankranti, with people exchanging til-gul (sesame seeds and jaggery) and offering prayers to the sun god. In Tamil Nadu, the festival is known as Pongal, where people cook a special dish called Pongal made of rice and lentils. In Punjab, the festival is celebrated as Lohri, with bonfires lit to mark the end of winter and the beginning of longer days.
FAQs
Q: What is the significance of kite flying during Sankranti?
A: Kite flying during Sankranti symbolizes the victory of good over evil and the freedom of the soul. It is believed that flying kites helps to ward off negative energy and bring in positivity and good luck.
Q: Why is taking a holy dip in the rivers considered auspicious during Sankranti?
A: Taking a holy dip in the rivers during Sankranti is believed to cleanse the soul of sins and bring blessings for a prosperous year ahead. It is a way of seeking forgiveness and purification.
Q: How is Sankranti celebrated in different regions of India?
A: Sankranti is celebrated in various ways across different regions of India. In Maharashtra, it is celebrated as Makar Sankranti with til-gul and prayers to the sun god. In Tamil Nadu, it is known as Pongal with the preparation of a special dish called Pongal. In Punjab, the festival is celebrated as Lohri with bonfires and traditional dances.
Q: What is the significance of offering til-gul during Sankranti?
A: Offering til-gul (sesame seeds and jaggery) during Sankranti symbolizes the sweetness and bitterness of life. It is believed that by exchanging til-gul, people let go of past grievances and start afresh with positivity and love.
In conclusion, Sankranti is a festival of great significance in Hindu culture, symbolizing new beginnings, prosperity, and renewal. It is a time for people to come together, offer prayers, and seek blessings for a prosperous year ahead. The festival is celebrated with various rituals and traditions across different regions of India, each adding to the richness and diversity of this auspicious occasion.