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| CelebrationsinWorld » Festivals of India » Makar Sankranti |
Makar Sankranti |
| Makar Sankranti is a day of great celebration in India and is characterized by the renowned fair at Gangasagar where millions of worshippers gather to take the ritual bath every year. It is celebrated on the 14th January every year. Makar Sankranti is celebrated in every part of India, although, a slight variation in its celebrations is nevertheless observed cross the various regions. However the one element that is common throughout the country is the worshipping of the Sun on this day. In the eastern parts of the country, this event is celebrated as the Makar Sankranti, in Punjab it is popular as Lohri, and in the southern parts of the country, it is celebrated as Pongal. |
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Traditionally it is believed that on Makar Sankranti the sun god comes to visit his son Shani and stays with him for a month. As the father and son do not get along well otherwise, this visit is therefore celebrated once every year. Scientifically and astrologically, this day marks the ascendancy of the sun and into the northern hemisphere. Chanting of the ‘gayatri mantra’ is mandatory for all Hindus on this day.
The highlight of the celebrations of Makar Sankranti lies in the fact that forefathers are paid homage and tributes and their blessings sought for a prosperous life. This day also marks the beginning of a righteous era.
Celebrations of the Makar Sankranti comprises of the below mentioned features:
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- Waking up in the morning and taking bath
- Ancestor worship and chanting of the gayatri mantra
- Gift exchange among friends and relatives and also alms to the needy
- Especially organizing to meet and give away gifts to sons and daughters in law, a tradition followed in many households.
As no Hindu festival is complete with out lavish feasts, Makar Sankranti is also no exception. A variety of vegetarian delicacies including til laddoos and sweets are prepared in every home and people rejoice thoroughly.
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