Makar Sankranti Special A Spiritual Essence of the Festival
Makar Sankranti
One of India’s most important and extensively observed holidays is Makar Sankranti. Known as the first significant Hindu holiday of the year, it commemorates the Sun’s entry into the sign of Capricorn (Makara Rashi) and the start of Uttarayan, the Sun’s trek north. Longer days, warmth, and wealth are all promised by this cosmic event.
Date and Time in 2025
Makar Sankranti on Tuesday, January 14, 2025. For religious celebrations, the precise moment of Sankranti, when the Sun enters Capricorn, is extremely important. The Punya Kaal Muhurat, or the most auspicious season for rituals and holy baths, will fall on the following dates in the Hindu calendar:
Muhurat Punya Kaal: 7:45 AM to 12:30 PM (IST)
Muhurat for Mahapunya Kaal: 8:15 AM to 10:45 AM (IST)
Also read about the Maha Kumbha Mela 2025
The Origin and Significance of Makar Sankranti
The origins of Makar Sankranti may be found in ancient Hindu texts and Vedic traditions. In addition to showing appreciation for a plentiful crop, the celebration is held to worship the Sun God, Surya. It is thought that Lord Surya pays a visit to his son Shani’s (Saturn) home on this day, signifying the value of harmony and family ties. Furthermore, it is stated that the great warrior Bhishma Pitamah decided to depart from his mortal body on this day because it is very auspicious for achieving Moksha, or emancipation.
Specialty
Cultural Diversity: Throughout India, the holiday is observed under many names and customs.
- In Tamil Nadu, Pongal
- Punjab’s Lohri
- Assam’s Magh Bihu
- Gujarat’s Uttarayan
- Uttar Pradesh’s Khichdi Parv
Til and Gur: One of the main highlights of Makar Sankranti is the ingestion of sweets prepared from sesame seeds (til) and jaggery (gur). These meals are said to provide you energy and warmth in the cold.
