Makar Sankranti is a harvest festival celebrated across India on January 14 or 15. It marks the transition of the sun from the zodiac sign Sagittarius to Capricorn. The festival is also known as Lohri in Punjab, Pongal in Tamil Nadu, Magh Bihu in Assam, and Ugadi in Karnataka.
Makar Sankranti 2024: Date and Timings
- This year, the festival will fall on January 15, 2024.
- Makara Sankranti on Monday, January 15, 2024
- Makara Sankranti Punya Kala - 07:15 AM to 05:46 PM, Duration - 10 Hours 31 Mins
- Makara Sankranti Maha Punya Kala - 07:15 AM to 09:00 AM, Duration - 01 Hour 45 Mins
- Makara Sankranti Moment - 02:54 AM
Significance of Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti is a time of great joy and celebration. It marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring. The festival is also a time to give thanks for the harvest and to pray for a bountiful year ahead.
Rituals and Traditions
Makar Sankranti is celebrated with a variety of rituals and traditions. Some of the most common rituals include:
- Taking a holy bath: In many parts of India, people take a holy bath in the Ganges River or other sacred rivers on Makar Sankranti. This is believed to cleanse the body and soul and to bring good luck.
- Offering prayers to the Sun God: On Makar Sankranti, people offer prayers to the Sun God. This is done to thank the Sun God for his blessings and to pray for a prosperous year ahead.
- Flying kites: Flying kites is a popular tradition on Makar Sankranti. This is believed to represent the victory of good over evil.
Traditional Food for Makar Sankranti 2024
Makar Sankranti is also a time for feasting. A variety of traditional foods are prepared for the festival. Some of the most popular traditional foods include:
Til Laddoo: These sweet balls are made with sesame seeds and jaggery. They are believed to bring good luck and prosperity.
Puran Poli: This sweet flatbread is filled with a moong dal filling. It is a popular breakfast dish during Makar Sankranti.
Khichdi: This savory dish is made with rice, lentils, and spices. It is a popular dish to have on Makar Sankranti as it is believed to bring good health.
Pongal: This dish is made with rice, lentils, and milk. It is a popular dish in Tamil Nadu and is believed to symbolize the abundance of the harvest.
Undhiyu: This dish is made with a variety of vegetables, spices, and ghee. It is a popular dish in Gujarat and is believed to be a warming dish for the winter.
Pinni: These sweetmeats are made with ghee, wheat flour, jaggery, and almonds. They are a popular dish in Punjab and are believed to ward off winter chills.
Peanut Chikki: This brittle is made with peanuts and jaggery. It is a popular snack during Makar Sankranti.
Makar Sankranti is a vibrant and festive occasion that celebrates the harvest, culture, and traditions of India. It is a time for families and friends to come together and to enjoy the delicious food and festivities.