Makar Sankranti, a special festival in India, is around the corner, set to brighten up the skies on January 15, Monday. The countdown has begun, with just 20 days left to celebrate this joyous occasion that marks the end of winter and the sun's shift to the northern hemisphere.
Image Courtesy: ZEE News India
Makar Sankranti holds significance in the Hindu month of Magh, and what makes it unique is its reliance on the solar calendar rather than the lunar calendar. Makar Sankranti 2024, rooted in the transition of the sun to Makara Rashi (Capricorn), will be celebrated on either January 14 or 15.
Legend has it that Bhishma, a character from the Mahabharata, awaited the auspicious Uttarayana to take his last breath. Uttarayana signifies the time when the sun starts its northward journey. Bhishma's choice of this period reflects the belief that departing during this time leads to liberation from the cycle of rebirth.
"Punya Kaal," or Sacred Time, is a crucial concept during Makar Sankranti. It's a short period when the sun seems to be in two zodiac signs simultaneously. This time is considered highly auspicious for activities like bathing, prayers, and donations. For Makar Sankranti 2023, Punya Kaal is from 7:14 AM to 1:38 PM on January 15.
Also Read, Foodie Recipe of Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti, a festival steeped in cultural and astronomical significance, is marked by key timings that align with the celestial movements. As we delve into the important moments of this auspicious day, let's explore the timings that define the celestial celebration.
| Event | Date & Time |
|---|---|
| Sunrise | January 15, 2024, 7:14 AM |
| Sunset | January 15, 2024, 5:57 PM |
| Sankranti Tithi | January 15, 2024, 2:45 AM |
| Punya Kaal Muhurta | January 15, 2024, 7:14 AM - 12:36 PM |
| Maha Punya Kaal Muhurta | January 15, 2024, 7:14 AM - 9:02 AM |
Also Read, Why do we celebrate Makar Sankranti 2024
Makar Sankranti is one of the biggest festivals in India. It is also known by different names in different regions. India's rich cultural tapestry is on full display during Makar Sankranti, with each state adding its unique touch to the festivities.
Image Courtesy: Abhibus
In Maharashtra, the saying "Til gul ghya god god bola" accompanies the exchange of Tilgudi Til laddus among women.
Gujarat celebrates Uttarayan with kite flying, sweet exchanges, and elders gifting presents to the younger generation.
Known as Khichdi or Kitcheri, Uttar Pradesh's festivities include a month-long Kumbh Mela with sacred baths in the confluence of rivers.
Punjab observes Maghi with bonfires, traditional bhangra dance, and a celebration of the bountiful harvest.
Pongal is the flavor in Tamil Nadu, with bonfires, rice boiling rituals, and joyful chants of 'Pongalo Pongal.'
West Bengal marks the festival with a holy dip at Ganga Sagar, symbolizing the enlivening of ancestors' ashes.
The Bhuyan tribe in Odisha celebrates with bonfires, dances, and processions known as Maghyatra.
Suggi in Karnataka involves farmers offering sesame, groundnut, and coconut delicacies to celebrate the festival.
In Andhra Pradesh, a three-day celebration includes bonfires, rangoli designs, prayers, and joyous greetings.
Sakaarat or Kichdi marks Bihar's festivities, including Ganges baths and a month-long Kumbh Mela.
Hangrai in Tripura involves festivals, traditional dishes, and hosting feasts for friends and relatives.
Makar Sankranti, Pongal, and Lohri are not limited to India; they are celebrated in various countries, including Sri Lanka, the United States, Canada, Malaysia, Singapore, Australia, and some European nations. In Sri Lanka, the festival is called Ulavar Thirunaal or Thai Pongal, lasting two days with offerings to the Sun God Suriyapakaran.
For those outside India, the Makar Sankranti moment falls on different dates and times:
Also Read, 5 Fun Activities on Makar Sankranti 2024
Makar Sankranti 2024 promises to bring joy and festivity to India and beyond. With diverse celebrations across states and a rich tapestry of cultural traditions, the festival exemplifies unity in diversity. As the Sun transitions, may this auspicious occasion bring prosperity, happiness, and a bountiful harvest to all. Happy Makar Sankranti!
Q1: When is Makar Sankranti 2024?
Ans: Makar Sankranti 2024 falls on January 15, Monday, marking the transition of the sun to the northern hemisphere.
Q2: What is the significance of Makar Sankranti in the Hindu calendar?
Ans: Makar Sankranti holds significance in the Hindu month of Magh and is unique as it follows the solar calendar, signifying the end of winter.
Q3: Why does the festival date vary between January 14 and 15?
Ans: The festival aligns with the sun's entry into Makara Rashi (Capricorn), sometimes occurring after sunset on January 14, leading to celebrations on January 15.
Q4: What is "Punya Kaal" during Makar Sankranti?
Ans: "Punya Kaal" is a sacred time during Makar Sankranti when the sun appears in two zodiac signs simultaneously, considered auspicious for activities like bathing and prayers.
Q5: How is Makar Sankranti celebrated globally?
Ans: Makar Sankranti, Pongal, and Lohri are celebrated worldwide, including Sri Lanka, the United States, Canada, Malaysia, Singapore, Australia, and Europe, with unique cultural adaptations.
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