Makar Sankranti marks the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn, also known as ‘Makara’. The festival usually occurs around January 14th of every year.
Significance and Customs:
Harvest Festival: Makar Sankranti is the last day of the winter solstice and the first day of longer days. The day is dedicated to the Sun God and is associated with new beginnings, prosperity, and abundance.
Kite Flying: The most common tradition associated with Makar Sankranti is kite flying. In most parts of India, people hold kite-flying competitions, and the sky is full of colorful kites.
Holy Dips: It is considered auspicious to take a holy dip in rivers, especially the Ganges, on this day. It is believed that taking a dip in the sacred rivers cleanses the soul and brings good fortune.
Sweets & special dishes: People prepare special dishes made with sesame seeds, jaggery, and other ingredients during Makar Sankranti.
Charity: Making charity is also common during Makar Sankranti. It is believed that such acts bring blessings and prosperity.
The festival is known by different names, such as Pongal in Tamil Nadu, Uttarayan in Gujarat, and Magh Bihu in Assam. Celebrations can be different in different states of India.
Makar Chaula (Makar Rice):
Makar Chaula is a unique prasad made on the occasion of Makar Sankranti. This rice is prepared in temples and households across Odisha. The rice used is the one harvested during the latest harvest. Ingredients vary with regional preference. Makar Chaula is prepared very carefully with raw, freshly harvested rice, mixed with ingredients like banana, coconut, jaggery, sesame, rasagola, khai/liaa, and chhena. This tasty preparation is offered as 'naivedya' to the deities during the Makar Sankranti festivities.
