MAKARA SANKRANTI — A FESTIVAL OF LIGHT, LIFE & RENEWAL
- GIAF'S AYURVEDA ASHRAYA
- 5 days ago
- 2 min read
Makara Sankranti is one of the most ancient and spiritually significant festivals of India, marking the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign Makara (Capricorn). Unlike most Hindu festivals that follow the lunar calendar, Makara Sankranti is celebrated on a fixed solar date — 14th or 15th January every year, symbolizing stability, discipline, and the eternal movement of time.
This auspicious day heralds the end of Dakshinayana and the beginning of Uttarayana, the northward journey of the Sun — a period considered highly favorable for spiritual growth, prosperity, and new beginnings.
🔥 Spiritual & Cultural Importance
Makara Sankranti is deeply rooted in the concept of light overcoming darkness, knowledge dispelling ignorance, and hope rising over despair. With the Sun’s northward movement, days grow longer and warmer, bringing fresh energy to life, agriculture, and human spirit.
The festival emphasizes:
Gratitude to nature
Charity and selfless giving
Renewal of inner strength
Harmony between humans and environment
📜 Stories & Legends Behind the Celebration
🌊 Bhishma’s Liberation
On this sacred day, the great warrior Bhishma Pitamaha chose to leave his mortal body, waiting for the auspicious period of Uttarayana, symbolizing the victory of self-control and dharma over physical suffering.
🔱 Lord Vishnu and the Asura
According to legend, Lord Vishnu defeated the asura Sankarasura on this day and buried his head under the Mandara mountain, signifying the destruction of negativity and ego.
🌞 Surya and Shani’s Reunion
Makara Sankranti also celebrates the visit of the Sun God Surya to his son Shani, the ruler of Capricorn, symbolizing reconciliation, family harmony, and healing of relationships.
🌾 Agricultural Significance
For farmers, Makara Sankranti marks the end of the winter harvest season. It is a celebration of hard work, abundance, and thankfulness. Newly harvested crops are offered to deities and shared among communities, strengthening social bonds.
🪁 Different Names Across India
Region | Name |
Tamil Nadu | Pongal |
Assam | Magh Bihu |
Punjab | Lohri |
Gujarat & Rajasthan | Uttarayan |
Maharashtra | Tilgul |
Karnataka | Suggi / Makara Sankranti |
Andhra Pradesh & Telangana | Pedda Panduga |
West Bengal | Poush Sankranti |
Each region expresses the same essence — celebration of light, life, and hope.
🍬 Traditions & Celebrations
Flying colorful kites symbolizing freedom and aspiration
Preparing sweets with til (sesame) and jaggery, promoting warmth and health
Holy river baths and charity
Decorating homes with rangoli and flowers
The famous saying:
"ಎಳ್ಳು ಬೆಲ್ಲ ತಗೊಂಡ್ ಒಳ್ಳೊಳ್ಳೆ ಮಾತಾಡುನು"
“Til-gul ghya, god-god bola”
"Accept sweetness and speak sweetly"
captures the spirit of harmony the festival promotes.
🌼 A Message of Renewal
Makara Sankranti teaches us to rise above limitations, welcome positivity, and walk the path of righteousness with courage and compassion. It is a celebration of both the cosmic journey of the Sun and the inner journey of the soul.
🌞 Happy Makara Sankranti to All
May this auspicious festival fill your life with health, prosperity, peace, and divine light.May your home glow with happiness and your heart soar with hope.
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