Why do we celebrate Makar Sankranti? Who Celebrate Makar Sankranti?

Makar Sankranti 2024 is a special celebration on January 14th, marking the shift from cold winter to warm spring. It's named after the sun moving into 'Makara Raashi' or Capricorn.

 

As winter goes away and spring comes in, Makar Sankranti brings hope. It's about saying goodbye to harsh winters and welcoming gentler, sunny days. The sun moves into the Capricorn constellation, making days longer and brighter. 

 

5 Reasons to Celebrate Makar Sankranti 

 

1. Embracing Gratitude

At its heart, Makar Sankranti is a thanksgiving to Surya, the Sun God, for giving us life. Families come together to thank for the abundance of food and life. This day is special as it follows the solar calendar, showing the Sun's shift towards the North, called Uttarayana.

 

2. Harvest Joy

It's not just about seasons changing; it's also about enjoying the rewards of hard work. For farming communities, it's a joyful time, celebrating the fruits of their labor with special dishes made from fresh produce like paddy, coconuts, and jaggery. Sesame Laddu, a traditional treat, adds sweetness to the celebrations.

 

3. Unity and Peace

Makar Sankranti is more than seasons; it's about making peace. Families forget differences, exchange greetings with haldi-kumkum, and come together to enjoy the festive spirit. Kite flying adds excitement, painting the sky with vibrant colors.

 

4. Diverse Celebrations

Celebrated all over India, each region adds its own customs and traditional dishes. The diversity in celebrations enriches the festival, making it unique in every part of the country.

 

5. Embracing Change

As Makar Sankranti 2024 comes, let's embrace change, be thankful for life's blessings, and join in the joy and togetherness. It's a time to appreciate the warmth of relationships, the abundance of nature, and the promise of brighter days ahead.

 

Also Read, Makar Sankranti: One Festival with Different Names

 

Who celebrates Makar Sankranti?

Makar Sankranti is a vibrant festival celebrated in different regions, bringing communities together to mark the transition of seasons. In Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Rajasthan, it is celebrated as Makar Sankranti.

 

 

State/Country	Festival
Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Rajasthan	Makar Sankranti
West Bengal & North East	Pousha Sankranti
Tamil Nadu	Thai Pongal
Kerala	Makara Vilakku
Assam and North East	Magh Bihu
Gujarat	Uttarayan
Punjab	Maghi
Nepal	Maaghe Sankrant
Thailand	Songkran
Cambodia	Mohan Songkran

Also Read, 5 Fun Activities in Makar Sankranti 

FAQs

Q1: When is Makar Sankranti 2024?

Ans: Makar Sankranti is celebrated on January 14th, 2024, marking the transition from winter to spring.

 

Q2: Why is Makar Sankranti a day of gratitude?

Ans: Makar Sankranti is a day to express thanks to Surya, the Sun God, for providing life. Families gather to appreciate the abundance of food and life.

 

Q3: What makes Makar Sankranti a harvest celebration?

Ans: It's not just about changing seasons; it's a time for farming communities to celebrate the fruits of their labor with special dishes made from fresh produce.

 

Q4: How does Makar Sankranti promote unity?

Ans: The festival promotes unity and peace as families set aside differences, exchange greetings, and come together to enjoy the festive spirit.

 

Q5: Where else is Makar Sankranti celebrated besides India?

Ans: Besides India, Makar Sankranti is celebrated in Nepal, Thailand, and Cambodia, each with its own customs and traditions.