Makar Sankranti: Celebrating the Harvest & Change of Seasons in Hindu Culture

Context: 

The President of India has greeted her fellow citizens on the eve of Lohri, Makar Sankranti, Magh Bihu and Pongal (which fall on January 13th, 14th and 15th respectively).

Vibrant Tradition of Celebration during ‘Uttarayan’ in Gujarat: 

• As a part of the official celebration of ‘Uttarayan’, the Gujarat government has been hosting the International Kite Festival since 1989.

About Makar Sankranti:

• A Festive Day: Makar Sankranti is a festival day in the Hindu calendar. Sankranti is worshiped as a God, who legends believe killed the devil Sankarasur.
  • It is also celebrated as a harvest Festival.
• It follows the Solar Cycle and thus, is celebrated almost on the same day every year.
• Signifies Change of Seasonality: The day is a marker for a change of season – warmer months are close and we are moving away from winter.
  • It marks the first day of the sun’s transit into the Makara (Capricorn), marking the end of the month with the winter solstice and the start of longer days.

Additional Information: Makar Sankranti

News Source: PIB