Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti, denoting the transition of the Sun into Makara rashi (Capricorn) on its celestial path, is celebrated as a festival for countless reasons and in myriad ways depending on the climate, agricultural environment, cultural background and location. A Sanskrit word in Indian Astrology, Makar Sankranti refers to the transmigration of the Sun from one Rāshi to another. Hence there are 12 such sankrantis in all. However, the Sankranti festival usually refers to Makara Sankaranti. Makar Sankranti is one of the most auspicious days for the Hindus and is celebrated in almost all parts of India in myriad cultural forms, with great devotion. Millions of people take a dip in places like Ganga Sagar and Prayag and pray to the Sun God (Surya). It is celebrated with pomp in southern parts of India as Pongal, and in Punjab as Maghi.
14 January is celebrated as Makar Sankranti or Sakraat or KHICHDI in UP and Bihar. As in other parts of country, people take bath in rivers and ponds and feast upon seasonal delicacies as a celebration of good harvest. The delicacies include Chura, Gur(jaggery), various sweets made of til (Sesame seeds) such as Tilkut, Tilwa, Maska, etc., curd , milk and seasonal vegetables. Kite flying festivals are also organized, albeit on a small scale. On 15 January, it is celebrated as Makraat (in some parts of the state) when people relish special Khichri (Dal-Rice replete with cauliflower, peas and potatoes).On Makar Sankranti day the Sun begins its ascendancy and journey into the Northern Hemisphere, and thus it signifies an event wherein the Gods seem to remind their children that ‘Tamaso Ma Jyotir Gamaya’. May you go higher & higher – to more & more Light and never to darkness.
