Nationwide, Makar Sankranti: A Festival of Sun, Harvest, and Joy is observed with great fanfare and extravagance. Known as the harvest festival, this is the time of year when people get together to worship the Sun God, make special dishes, fly kites, and conduct charitable activities. Celebrated across India under various names. It's here—one of the most memorable days of the year. Makar Sankranti marks the sun's annual passage from the sign of Sagittarius to Capricorn. Since Makara Rashi is another name for Capricorn, Makar Sankranti derives its name from the zodiac.
Makar Sankranti: A Festival of Sun, Harvest, and Joy And its different names in India?
Here are some names of Makar Sankranti with the emoji's for signify the meaning of name. This is the state wise classification. Makar Sankranti is observed with great fanfare and extravagance.
- Andhra Pradesh and Telangana - Sankranthi 🪁
- Assam - Bhogali Bihu 🌾
- Bihar and Jharkhand - Khichdi 🍲
- Gujarat - Uttarayan (Kite Festival) 🪁
- Karnataka - Sankranti/Hogi Bihu 🪁
- Kerala - Makaravilakku/Makarajyothi 🕯️
- Maharashtra and Goa - Makar Sankranti 🪁
- Odisha - Makar Mela 🛕
- Punjab - Maghi/Maghi Mela 🍚
- Rajasthan - Sankrat 🪁
- Tamil Nadu - Thai Pongal 🍚
- Uttar Pradesh - Khichdi 🍲
- West Bengal - Poush Parbon 🍲
Please note that these are just a few examples, and festivals may have different names or variations within each state. Enjoy the festive vibes! 🎉🪁
Why do we Celebrate Makar Sankranti?
In Hindu mythology, on the day after Makar Sankranti, the goddess Sankranti defeated a demon named Sankarasur. On the other hand, it is thought that those who pass away on Makar Sankranti Day ascend straight to heaven. On Makar Sankranti, the sun transitions into a new zodiac. It marks the end of the winter season with the sun's northward journey. In India, this also signifies the beginning of longer days. Among the customs of the auspicious day are foods made with sesame seeds and the worship of cattle. On Makar Sankranti, farmers pray to the Sun God for a bountiful crop.
How do we Celebrate 🎉 the Makar Sankranti: step-by-step guide to celebrate the Makar Sankranti anyweare!
Here's how to celebrate Makar Sankranti step-by-step: this also signifies the beginning of longer days. Among the customs of the auspicious day are foods made with sesame seeds and the worship of cattle. On Makar Sankranti, farmers pray to the Sun God for a bountiful crop.
1. Flying Kites: Makar Sankranti is known for kite flying in many parts of India. Get your loved ones together outside to watch vibrant kites soar through the clear sky. As your kite soars high, join the excitement and experience the thrill! 🥁
2. Prepare Special Dishes: Makar Sankranti is known for its delicious cuisine. Traditional dishes like Til Laddoos (sesame seed sweets), Gur Rewari (jaggery-coated sesame sweets), Khichdi (rice and lentil dish), and Pongal (sweet & savory rice dish) are prepared. Savor the flavors and delight in the celebratory feast! 🍚
3. Bonfire: Starting a bonfire is an important aspect of the celebration in some areas. To build a small bonfire in your backyard or another open area, gather wood or cow dung cakes. Gather around the hearth, sing old songs, dance, and revel in the coziness and warmth! 🔥
4. Decorate with Rangoli: Use flowers, diyas (oil lamps), and powdered colors or grains to create colorful rangoli designs for your courtyard or doorstep. Beautiful patterns of the sun, kites, or conventional motifs can be made. Bring in the holiday spirit and add a little creativity! 🎨🎔
5. Give and Spread: Makar Sankranti is a time to give back as well. Give food, clothing, or other necessities to those in need, or donate money to charities. Spread happiness and joy throughout the community. 🙏🤝
6. Cultural Activities: Take part in any community-organized cultural events or initiatives. Savor the rich legacy connected to Makar Sankranti through traditional music, dance performances, and other cultural events. Enjoy the cultural extravaganza to the fullest! 🎶💃
7. Seek Blessings: Go to temples or other sacred locations and ask the gods for blessings. In accordance with your religious beliefs, offer prayers and carry out rituals. Give thanks and consider the festival's auspiciousness for a moment. 🙏
8. Spend Time with Loved Ones: Makar Sankranti is an occasion to strengthen relationships with kin and companions. Play games, have conversations, spend quality time together, and make enduring memories. Treasure the times you spend laughing and in love! 😄❤️.
Keep in mind that these are just suggestions; regional customs and traditions may cause Makar Sankranti celebrations to differ. Have a joyful, upbeat, and enthusiastic time at the festival! 🎉🎁
