Makar Sankranti is one of the most auspicious festivals that is celebrated in all parts of India. This is the only festival, which is celebrated with a Million different names on the same day. Sankranti brings joy for every kid or adult, a man or a woman of any religion irrespective of caste or creed. This festival is celebrated with different names and melange of traditions are witnessed on this day.
Let us have a spot light on the significance of Makar Sankranti:
3 Days festival:
Makar Sankranti is one of the biggest festivals and it is celebrated for three days starting from January 13th to January 15th of every year. The very first day of the festival is called Bhogi, second day is called Makar Sankranti and the third day is called Kanuma. All the three days have their own individual significance.
Why it is called Makar Sankranti?
Makar Sankranti marks the end of harvesting season. Makar (Capricorn) is a Hindu Zodiac sign and Sankranti means to change direction. According to Hindu Mythology, Makar Sankranti will be celebrated when sun changes its direction northwards from Dhanu Rashi (Sagittarius) to Makar Rashi (Capricorn) in the month of Poush.
1) Bhogi
First day, Bhogi is celebrated on January 13th of every year. On this festive day, ‘Bhogi’ or the Rain God (Lord Indra) is worshipped. This festival is more colorful in villages than in cities and towns. On this day, people woke up early and burn the old items or leaves. This tradition is followed to drive away all the bad memories of the old year. People then decorate the houses with flowers and colorful garlands. Of course, special yummy & mouth-watering dishes will be prepared.
2) Makar Sankrati
The festival of Makar Sankranti is celebrated on January 14th of every year as it marks the end of harvesting season. It is believed that Sankranti will ring in prosperity to the people and spark of life. Freshly harvested sugarcanes are arranged in front of the house in either side of an earthen pots. Pongal is a time to celebrate with family and people wear new wardrobes on this day. Ethnic Kurta Pyjama, sarees are a popular choice of outfit during Sankranti. Kites flying is another tradition on this day. People will make Rangolis, special mouth-watering dishes with great devotion and fervour.
3) Kanuma
Kanuma is the last day of Pongal festivities. People celebrate Kanuma on the third day as a gratitude to the cattle since the harvesting of crops is impossible without the help of these admirable beasts. Owners of cattle and farmers bathe their cattle and decorate them by painting with colors on their face and horns.
Other names of Sankranti:
Sankranti is celebrated in India with different names. Pongal, Maghe Sankranti, Songkran, Pi Ma Lao, Makara Sankramana, Poush Parbon, Lohri, Uttarayan, Maghi, Khichdi, Thingyan, Bihu, Poki Festival, Hagada etc are some of other popular names of Sankranti.
Enlighten your year with radiant celebrations of Sankranti and fill your days ahead with happiness!
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