Narendra Singh Tomar, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, extends heartfelt wishes to all on the joyous occasion of Makar Sankranti. This Hindu festival, also known as Uttarayana, is celebrated annually on January 14 (January 15 in leap years), symbolizing the sun’s shift from Sagittarius to Capricorn.
“Marked by vibrant celebrations, Makar Sankranti holds regional variations, known by names such as Magh Bihu, Maghi Saaji, and Pongal in different parts of India. The festival pays homage to the solar deity, Surya, signifying new beginnings and the transition from south to north”.
Social festivities characterize Makar Sankranti, with colorful decorations, traditional songs by rural children, and melas (fairs). Kite flying, bonfires, and feasts add to the joy, making it a time of communal celebration. In some regions, children go house to house, singing and seeking treats.
“One of the distinctive aspects is the Magha Mela, mentioned in the Hindu epic Mahabharata. Additionally, Makar Sankranti witnesses the grand Kumbha Mela every twelve years, a massive pilgrimage attracting millions who offer prayers to the Sun and bathe at the confluence of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers in Prayagraj”.
The festival holds deep cultural significance, with devotees expressing gratitude through rituals and traditions. The bathing ceremony in sacred rivers or lakes is a common practice, symbolizing thanks to the Sun. Makar Sankranti stands as a time of celebration, reflection, and thanksgiving, embodying the rich tapestry of diverse customs that define India’s cultural heritage.
