Makar Sankranti is one of the most important festivals in India, celebrated with great joy and enthusiasm. It is also known as the Harvest Festival and is celebrated every year on January 14th. It is believed that the Sun moves into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makar). Makar Sankranti brings people together to celebrate the beginning of the harvest season, the triumph of light over darkness and the significance of the new beginning.
It has both spiritual and agricultural significance and it brings people together to celebrate the harvest season and the beginning of longer days.
Also read, 7 Sacred Bathing Ghats of Maha Kumbh Mela
Makar Sankranti 2025: Dates and Tithi
| Ritual | Dates | Tithi |
|---|---|---|
| Royal Bathing | 14th January 2025 | 09:03 AM to 5:46 PM |
| Maha Punya Kaal | 14th January 2025 | 09:03 AM to 10:48 AM |
History of Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti is based on the solar calendar because it marks the sun’s entry into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makar). The Sun’s movements from the Dakshinayana to the Uttarayana are considered auspicious in Hinduism. The Uttarayana is associated with a period of prosperity, spiritual growth and good fortune.
According to one popular myth, it is believed that Lord Shani got angry with his father and positioned himself in such a way that his rays caused difficulty to Surya. On the day of Makar Sankranti, Surya is believed to move out of Shani’s shadow and enter Capricorn, symbolising the reunion of father and son.
Another myth involves Lord Vishnu, who defeated the demon Sankarasur during this time. Hence, Makarsankrati is seen as the victory of light over darkness.
It is also believed that on Makar Sankranti, the Pandavas in the Mahabharata story began their journey to the Himalayas for their final journey to heaven.
Significance of Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti is an important Indian festival that marks the end of the winter and the start of longer days. It is not just an astronomical event but also a celebration of harvests, cultural diversity and togetherness.
- People thank nature and pray for prosperity.
- Each state celebrates with unique traditions, reflecting India’s rich culture.
- It brings people together, transcending regional and cultural boundaries.
- The festival emphasizes gratitude, sharing and harmony.
Makar Sankranti Festival Celebration 2025
There are a number of ways you can take part in the Makar Sankranti festival and embrace the positive energy of the festival.
- Fly kites on rooftops with family and friends. The sky is filled with colourful kites, symbolizing joy and freedom.
- Make and share sweets made up of sesame and jaggery like til ladoos. This symbolizes goodwill and togetherness.
- Take a dip in sacred rivers like the Ganga to cleanse the soul and seek blessings.
- Some celebrate with bonfires, singing and dancing in a state like Punjab to mark the harvest season.
- You can attend cultural programs, fairs and exhibitions to enjoy traditional dances, food and crafts.
- Children along with younger family members, sit with elders and hear Makar Sankranti tales about traditions, myths and flying kite adventures.
Learn about Shahi Snan 2025 Dates
Regional Celebration of Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti is celebrated in different ways across India:
Tamil Naidu (Pongal)
In Tamil Naidu, Makar Sankrati is called Pongal. People prepare a special dish called Pongal, made with freshly harvested rice. It is a festival filled with prayers, dancing and feasts.
Assam (Bihu)
In Assam, Makar Sankranti is called Bihu, where people celebrate this festival with music, dance and family gatherings. It marks the start of the agricultural year.
Uttar Pradesh and Bihar (Khichdi)
In Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, people celebrate Makar Sankranti by preparing a dish called Khichdi, made with rice and lentils. It symbolizes togetherness and unity.
Makar Sankranti is not just about rituals; it’s about coming together with friends, family and community. It is a festival of joy, whether through kite flying, offering prayers, dancing around a bonfire or exchanging sweets. The festival brings positivity and new beginnings, which makes us grateful for nature’s gifts and to enjoy the company of loved ones that connects us to the natural world.
