Makar Sankranti is a popular Hindu festival celebrated across India, marking the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makar). It usually falls on January 14th and signifies the end of winter and the beginning of longer days. It is also a harvest festival, celebrating abundance and prosperity.
🕉️ Spiritual Significance
Makar Sankranti symbolizes new beginnings, gratitude for a bountiful harvest, and the importance of balance and harmony in life. It is considered an auspicious day for spiritual practices, charity, and renewal.
🙏 Makar Sankranti Puja Rituals
- Holy Bath (Snan):
- Devotees take a ritual bath in sacred rivers like the Ganges, Yamuna, or local water bodies, believed to purify the body and soul.
- Sun Worship (Surya Puja):
- Worship of Surya, the Sun God, is performed at sunrise by offering water, flowers, and sesame seeds while chanting mantras.
- Offerings and Prasad:
- Traditional foods made with sesame seeds (til) and jaggery (gur) like tilgul sweets are prepared and shared.
- Charity (Dana):
- Acts of giving and helping the needy are emphasized on this day.
- Kite Flying:
- In many regions, kite flying is a popular cultural activity symbolizing the joy of the festival.
🌼 Message of Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti celebrates gratitude, positivity, and the rhythm of nature. It encourages harmony with cosmic cycles and sharing of blessings.
