Makar Sankranti 2024 (India): In specific years, Makar Sankranti occurs on January 14 or January 15. Makar Sankranti is one of the most widely observed Hindu festivals and the very first significant festival to be observed in India. Makar Sankranti, in contrast to other Hindu festivals that adhere to the lunar calendar, transpires annually on the same day due to its reliance on the solar calendar. This festival, which signifies the transition from winter to spring, is also celebrated in countries such as Myanmar, Nepal, Bangladesh, Thailand, and Cambodia, among others, in addition to India.
History on Makar Sankranthi
Hindus have been observant of this festival since antiquity. Additionally, Hindu religious texts and documents describe this festival.
As per a widely disseminated legend, this festival originated from the jubilation surrounding the destruction of a demon. Sankarasur, a particularly homicidal demon, allegedly tormented and murdered humans without provocation. A deity by the name of Sankranti descended to Earth upon hearing this and vanquished him. Since then, Hindus have observed this festival in her honor.
People also pay homage to Surya, the sun deity, on this day, as the sun plays a significant role in the seasonal changes. As of today, the sun has begun its northward movement.
There are numerous traditions and legends that go along with the celebrations themselves. An important tradition revolves around the activity of kite-flying while basking in the sun. It is commonly believed that this practice eliminates pathogens and infections from the body following a lengthy winter.
On this day, people consume customary sweet dishes; there is also a legend surrounding this practice. It would appear that the sun deity Surya and his son Shani never got along perfectly. However, they resolve to put things behind them on this day, and Surya pays Shani a visit with delicacies as an expression of absolution. As a result, Hindus partake in the consumption and sharing of delicacies among their loved ones.
An additional renowned tradition of this festival pertains to the spiritual aspect. It is widely held that sacred waters, along with a purifying immersion in them, are indispensable components of Makar Sankranti revelry. The Ganga and Yamuna, both revered rivers in India, are the destinations of large-scale pilgrimages.
This season signifies the beginning of the agricultural cycle in many regions of India when crops have been sown and laborious fieldwork is nearly at an end. Hence, this period is characterized by familial gatherings and the enjoyment of one another’s company.
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FAQS on Makar Sankranti 2024 (India)
In 2021, on what date was Makar Sankranti observed?
Makar Sankranti was observed on January 14, 2021; however, depending on the year, it can also be observed on January 15 or January 14.
What significance does Makar Sankranti hold?
This ancient Indian celebration is significant for spiritual practices and is regarded as sacred and auspicious. It is characterized by social gatherings, the enjoyment of the company of loved ones, and the celebration of the changing season.
Is it customary to wear black attire during Makar Sankranti?
Black is the color of choice for this occasion. It is hypothesized that by absorbing solar heat, this color raises body temperature and protects individuals from the weather.
Makar Sankranti 2024 (India) Activities
Savor a delectable
If an Indian treat is available, indulge in it. Alternatively, one may consult cookbooks for traditional Indian confections such as ’tilgul’ and ‘pongal,’ or experiment with jaggery, an Indian sweetener.
Perch a kite
Collect your family and children, a kite, and set sail for a day in the sun. An enjoyable kite-flying competition may also be organized to determine who can soar the highest.
Enjoy your vacation!
On Makar Sankranti, festivities predominate. An observance of life, a harvest festival, and the worship of numerous religious deities. Enjoy a personal celebration of excellent health, friends, and life. Gather with close friends and family, sing and dance, and enjoy yourself.
Five Interesting Facts Regarding Makar Sankranthi
How is the name defined?
Makar signifies “Capricorn,” and Sankranti is the celestial body’s transit from one zodiac sign to another; thus, the sun’s transition from Capricorn to another zodiac sign occurs on this day.
An entrance to paradise
According to an ancient legend, those who pass away on this day enter paradise immediately.
Significant pilgrimage on this day
The Maha Kumbh, the largest Hindu pilgrimage in the world, commences on this day every 12 years.
The renaming of every region
This festival is known by different names in different countries and states, including Makara Sankranti in Maharashtra, Pongal in Tamil Nadu, Bhogali Bihu and Magh Bihu in Assam, Songkran in Thailand, and Maghe Sankranti in Nepal.
The celebration of Makar Sankranti resembles Thanksgiving.
This celebration features food, family, and gratitude; it is an alternative iteration of the Thanksgiving holiday.
MAKAR SANKRANTI DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | January 15 | Monday |
| 2025 | January 14 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | January 14 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | January 15 | Friday |
