Makar Sankranti is a happy festival celebrated all over India. It happens around January 14th or 15th and tells us that warmer days are coming. It’s like a party with many different traditions in different places.

During Makar Sankranti, people do lots of fun things. They dip in rivers, fly kites, and light bonfires. Families and friends also gather for yummy meals. It’s not just about the sun moving; it’s about being together and celebrating our traditions.

People thank the sun for good crops, and there’s a lot of giving to those who need it. They share special foods and visit temples for blessings. Makar Sankranti is like a big, colorful celebration that brings everyone closer, no matter where they are in India.

1. Makar Sankranti marks the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makar Rashi).

2. It usually falls on January 14th or 15th, marking the end of the winter solstice.

3. The festival signifies the increasing daylight and the arrival of longer days.

4. Celebrated across India, it holds cultural significance in various regions.

5. People take holy dips in rivers, especially the Ganges, believing it washes away sins.

6. Kite flying is a popular tradition symbolizing reaching new heights and freedom.

7. The festival marks the harvest season, expressing gratitude for the abundance of crops.

8. Various regional names like Pongal, Lohri, and Uttarayan are given to the celebration.

9. It is a time for family and friends to come together and share festive meals.

10. Bonfires are lit to symbolize the end of winter and the triumph of light over darkness.

11. Makar Sankranti is linked to the historical event of Bhishma Pitamah choosing his time of death.

12. Traditional foods like sesame seeds and jaggery are consumed for their warmth.

13. The day is considered auspicious for charity and donations to the less fortunate.

14. Farmers express gratitude for a successful harvest by performing rituals.

15. Women perform special prayers for the well-being and prosperity of their families.

16. In Maharashtra, people exchange tilgul (sesame and jaggery sweets) and say, “Tilgul ghya, god god bola” (Take tilgul and speak sweet words).

17. Makar Sankranti is also associated with the worship of the sun god, Surya.

18. Devotees visit temples to seek blessings for a prosperous and harmonious life.

19. The festival symbolizes the movement of the sun towards the northern hemisphere.

20. Overall, Makar Sankranti is a vibrant celebration embracing diverse cultural practices and reinforcing the unity of the country.

Happy Makar Sankranti!