Makara Sankaranti marks the beginning of the ascent of the Sun into the northern hemisphere and is celebrated by the Hindus with a lot of pomp and galore. Makara Sankaranti is symbolic of the change of planetary houses that the Sun makes by shifting from Saggitarius to Capricorn during this time of the year. Although Indian festivals are based on the lunar calendar, Makara Sankaranti follows the solar calendar and hence is usually celebrated on the same day every year. This also marks the inception of the holy phase of uttarayana which is considered the best time for attaining ‘Mukti’.
Makara Sankaranti is celebrated all across India by different names and rituals associated with this pious day. Other names include ‘Khichri’ in Uttar Pradesh, ‘Pongal’ in Tamil Nadu, ‘Bhogali Bihu’ in Assam, ‘Sakarat’ in Central India and ‘Lohri’ in Punjab and northern India. In Uttar Pradesh, ritual holy bath is taken by people in the Ganges. The famous ‘Magh Mela’ starts on this day at the Prayag in Allahabad. In Punjab, the local people lit bonfires on the eve of Sankranti and perform puja around the sacred fire by throwing rice and sweets into it. In Gujarat, kite flying is of prime importance on that day. In Maharashtra, Sankranti is marked by the making and exchange of various kinds of sweets made of jaggery and sesame seeds. In Tamil Nadu, this day marks the worship of the harvest God. Local people harvest their paddy on this day. In Bengal, the famous Ganga sagar mela starts on this day. People take holy dips in the river on this day offering early morning pujas to the Sun God at dawn. Among the tribals of Orissa, Makara Sankaranti signifies the New Year.
In consonance with the Puranas, it is believed that Lord Surya pays visit to his son, Lord Shani who is the lord of Makara sign, on this day. This festival signifies a healthy bond that is shared between a father and a son. Makara Sankaranti will be celebrated on 14th January 2023. Yoga Vidya Gurukulam wishes everyone a happy Makara Sankaranti