Makar Sankranti is an important Hindu festival, also known as Uttarayan. In this, we worship Lord Sun. Makar Sankranti in India marks the end of Winter season and beginning of new harvest season. On this day, Sun begins its northward journey marking the end of winter months resulting into the longer days.
On this day, we worship Lord Sun or Surya Dev as we call the almighty, pray for our family’s well-being and do charity of food to the poor and needy. Some people also observe fast on this day. And because, the sun starts its journey towards the north on this day, many people take a dip in the holy rivers like Ganga, Yamuna and Godavari and also chant mantras, etc. Although the sun has a huge impact all the zodiac signs, but it is believed that the entry of the sun in the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makar rashi) religiously is very beneficial.
The north position of the Sun has more importance in both Vedas and as well as in Science. When the sun is on its northwards position, human efficiency increases due to increase in light and the energy emitted from the sun. Human beings move towards progress. Therefore, this is also a very important day scientifically.
I always begin the day of Makar Sankranti by taking bath, doing Surya Namaskar and chanting ॐ सूर्याय नम:, the powerful Surya dev mantra on this day, followed by Daan (charity) of khichdi ingredients such as rice, pulses, vegetables and sweets.
And yes, we eat Khichdi on this day as it’s auspicious and healthy! Why? For the reason why it’s auspicious, you’ve got to refer the granth. But why it’s healthy? Well, the logic says eating Khichdi is good for digestion as since this day is on the verge of climate change and season harvest, it becomes important to either observe fast or eat light food. And khichdi, is a light food that also fills stomach. Else why would patients eat Khichdi?
More details about how we celebrate this festival is linked at the end of this post.
To celebrate this auspicious day, kids fly kites and ladies meet and greet often wearing yellow clothes. Yellow represents the colour of the Sun, so we even decorate our homes with marigold flowers.
In India, most of our festivals happen when there is climate switch and during the harvest season. Same goes for Makar Sankranti as well.
Even the schools and colleges are off on this day.
I have some really amazing memories of me visiting my nani’s house on this day to celebrate with my cousins. The brothers used to fly kites for hours while we all sisters used to play on the terrace and spend time under the warm sun, eating snacks and sweets. I am feeling so nostalgic as I write this post.
Hope you understood the reason why we celebrate the festival of Makar Sankranti?
Share, as many might not know!
Also read:
My Makar Sankranti Puja, Daan & Food Details
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