Makar Sankranti, also known as Uttarayan or Maghi, is one of the most celebrated festivals in India. It is a harvest festival that marks the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makar) on its celestial path, and hence the festival is named Makar Sankranti. This festival is celebrated on the 14th of January every year, although the date may vary slightly due to the variation in the position of the sun.
Makar Sankranti is celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm all over India, especially in the states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Bihar. It is a time when people come together to celebrate the abundance of nature and the bountiful harvest. The festival is also seen as a symbol of unity and is celebrated with great joy and enthusiasm across all communities and castes.
How Do We Celebrate Makar Sankranti Festival?
The festival is marked by the flying of kites, which is a popular activity during this time. People of all ages take part in kite-flying competitions, and the sky is filled with colorful kites of different shapes and sizes. The day is also celebrated by preparing special delicacies like til ladoo, gajak, and chikki, made from sesame seeds and jaggery.
In Maharashtra, Makar Sankranti is celebrated as a three-day festival. The first day is called ‘Bhogi’ when people discard old and unwanted things and prepare for a new beginning. The second day is the main day of the festival when people exchange sweets and greet each other with “til-gul” (sesame seeds and jaggery). The third day is called ‘Kinkrant’ when people offer prayers to the sun god and take a dip in holy rivers.
In Gujarat, Makar Sankranti is celebrated as Uttarayan, and it is a major festival. The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm, and people come from all over the world to witness the kite-flying competition in Ahmedabad. The state is known for its colorful kites and the innovative designs that are used.
In Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, the festival is called ‘Khichdi’ and is celebrated by preparing a special dish called ‘khichdi’ made from rice and lentils. The dish is prepared in large quantities and distributed among friends and family.
Makar Sankranti is a festival that celebrates the beauty of nature and the importance of agriculture. It is a time to come together with friends and family and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. The festival is also a reminder to cherish the bonds of unity and diversity that bind us together as a nation.