Makar Sankranti 2025: Celebrating Prosperity and New Beginnings
Makar Sankranti is a major Hindu festival celebrated
across India, symbolizing the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of
Capricorn (Makara). This festival marks the end of winter, the beginning of the
harvest season, and the arrival of longer days. In 2025, Makar Sankranti falls
on Tuesday, January 14, with the auspicious period or Punya Kaal lasting from
9:03 AM to 5:46 PM.
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Significance of Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti signifies renewal, prosperity, and
gratitude. It marks the end of the winter solstice as the sun begins its
northward journey (Uttarayana) towards the Tropic of Capricorn. This shift
brings longer days and is seen as a time for new beginnings. Farmers across the
country celebrate this festival as a time to rejoice in the fruits of their
hard work during the harvest season.
Auspicious Timings for
Makar Sankranti 2025
·
Sun’s
Entry into Capricorn: 8:41 AM
·
Punya
Kaal (Auspicious Period): 9:03
AM to 5:46 PM
·
Ganga
Snan Muhurat (Holy Dip Timing):
8:55 AM to 12:51 PM
·
Special
Amrit Kaal: 8:55 AM to 9:29 AM,
considered ideal for prayers and rituals.
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Celebrations across India
Makar Sankranti is celebrated with unique traditions
and customs in different parts of the country. Here’s how various regions
observe this vibrant festival:
Gujarat: Uttarayan
In Gujarat, Makar Sankranti is known as Uttarayan. The
skies come alive with colorful kites as people compete in friendly kite-flying
battles. Traditional sweets made with sesame seeds and jaggeries are enjoyed,
symbolizing harmony and new friendships.
Maharashtra: Tilgul and
Celebrations
In Maharashtra, people exchange Tilgul, a sweet made
of sesame seeds and jaggery, along with the saying “Tilgul ghya, goad goad
bola” (“Take these sweets and speak sweetly”). Kite flying and fairs featuring
traditional dances like Lavani add to the festivities.
Tamil Nadu: Pongal
In Tamil Nadu, Makar Sankranti is celebrated as
Pongal, a four-day festival dedicated to the Sun God. Families cook the
traditional dish Pongal using freshly harvested rice, symbolizing abundance.
Homes are adorned with colorful rangoli, and folk dances bring communities
together.
Punjab: Lohri
In Punjab, the festival is celebrated as Lohri,
marking the harvest of rabi crops. People light large bonfires, sing folk
songs, and perform traditional dances like Bhangra and Gidda. Sesame seeds,
jaggery, and peanuts are offered to the fire as a sign of gratitude.
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Uttar Pradesh: Kumbh Mela
and Rituals
In Uttar Pradesh, Makar Sankranti coincides with the
Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj. Millions take a holy dip in the Ganges River to wash
away sins and seek blessings. The day is marked by religious rituals and fairs.
Assam: Magh Bihu
Assam celebrates Magh Bihu, also known as Bhogali
Bihu, which signifies the end of the harvest season. Communities prepare
traditional delicacies like pitha and organize feasts. Bonfires and Meji Ghar
gatherings highlight the spirit of togetherness.
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West Bengal: Ganga Sagar
Mela
In West Bengal, devotees take a holy dip at the
confluence of the Ganges and the Bay of Bengal during the Ganga Sagar Mela.
Traditional sweets like til patti are offered to the Sun God.
Telangana: Kite Festivals
and Cultural Performances
In Telangana, the celebrations include colorful kite
festivals, performances by Haridasu (devotees of Lord Vishnu), and decorated
bulls known as Gangireddu. Vibrant rangoli competitions add to the festive
cheer.
Holiday Status in India
The
status of Makar Sankranti as a public holiday varies across India:
·
North India: States
like Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan observe a holiday, aligning with the
extended weekend.
·
Telangana: A five-day
holiday from January 13 to 17 includes Makar Sankranti and other regional
festivals.
·
Tamil
Nadu: A six-day holiday from January 14 to 19 encompasses
Pongal celebrations.
·
Other
States: Cities like Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Bhubaneswar,
Chennai, and Hyderabad observe bank holidays, while Delhi-NCR banks remain
open.
Conclusion
Makar Sankranti 2025 is a celebration of gratitude,
joy, and togetherness. Whether through kite flying, preparing traditional
sweets, or engaging in cultural performances, this festival brings people
closer and marks the start of a prosperous year. Let us embrace the spirit of
Makar Sankranti by spreading kindness and celebrating the beauty of tradition.
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