Makar Sankranti 2024: A Celebration of Light, Harvest, and Tradition

As January unfolds, India is alive with the vibrant festivities of Makar Sankranti, a significant cultural and religious festival dedicated to the Sun God. This annual celebration serves a dual purpose, marking the end of winter and the start of longer days as the Sun shifts northward. Known as the harvest festival, Makar Sankranti is closely tied to the solar calendar, aligning almost synchronously each year.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Beyond its seasonal importance, Makar Sankranti carries historical and religious connotations. In ancient times, the festival symbolized the transition from harsh winters to milder climates, a metaphorical beacon of hope and positivity. For agrarian communities, it's a time of joy and abundance as they reap the rewards of their hard labor during the harvest festival.

Legend has it that Makar Sankranti is linked to the slaying of demons. In certain regions, the belief is that a deity named Sankranti defeats the demon Sankarasur, followed by the vanquishing of another demon, Kinkarasur. Hence, the festival is also known as Kinkrant.

Diverse Celebrations Across India and Beyond

Makar Sankranti isn't confined to specific regions; it spreads joy across Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Rajasthan. Variations of the festival are observed throughout India and across Asia.

In West Bengal and the northeastern states, it transforms into Pousha Sankranti and Bihu. Tamil Nadu celebrates it as Thai Pongal, while Kerala observes it as Makara Vilakku. In Gujarat, the festival takes on the name Vasi Uttarayan, Maaghe Sankrant in Nepal, and Mahi in Punjab. Notably, Thailand and Cambodia join the festivities, celebrating Makar Sankranti as Songkran and Mohan Songrak, respectively.

Makar Sankranti 2024: Today's Celebration

Today, Makar Sankranti illuminates the skies on January 15, following the celebration of Lohri. According to Drik Panchang, the auspicious Sankranti moment is at 2:45 am on January 15. The Punya Kala, a period of sanctity, extends from 7:15 am to 8:07 pm (10 hours, 31 minutes), with Maha Punya Kala occurring from 7:15 am to 9:00 am (1 hour, 45 minutes). As the nation eagerly awaits this joyous occasion, the spirit of Makar Sankranti continues to unite communities in the celebration of light, harvest, and tradition.

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