Makar Sankranti 2024: Date and Time, Significance

makar sankranti traditional ladoo, haldi and kumkum

Makar Sankranti, celebrated on January 14th in 2024, marks the sun's transition into the Capricorn zodiac, signifying the end of winter solstice and the commencement of longer days. This vibrant Hindu festival is widely recognized for its colorful kite-flying festivities, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness. People engage in the exchange of sesame sweets, sesame seeds, and jaggery, promoting warmth and a sense of community. Devotees partake in ritual baths in sacred rivers, seeking blessings. Across various regions of India, diverse customs such as bonfires and feasts are observed. Makar Sankranti represents the spirit of unity, harvest, and the anticipation of brighter days ahead.

Makar Sankranti 2024 Schedule

Makar Sankranti- January 14, 11:24 p.m to 02:45 AM
From 05:29 AM to 07:05 PM, Makara Sankranti Punya Kala
From 05:29 AM to 07:45 AM Makar Sankranti Maha Punya Kala

Makar Sankranti Significance

Makar Sankranti, a significant Hindu festival with cultural and astronomical significance, is celebrated annually on January 14th. This festival marks the sun's transition into the Capricorn zodiac sign (Makar), symbolizing the conclusion of the winter solstice and the onset of longer days. The celestial occurrence represents the victory of light over darkness and the gradual shift toward warmer seasons.

Across India, the festival takes on various regional names and customs, reflecting the nation's diverse cultural heritage. In Gujarat and parts of Maharashtra, the sky is animated with vibrant kites engaged in friendly competitions, symbolizing the liberation from past constraints and the ascent of aspirations. In South India, it is referred to as Pongal, a harvest festival involving the preparation of a special dish in new earthen pots offered to the Sun God.

Makar Sankranti also bears spiritual significance, prompting devotees to partake in ritual baths in sacred rivers like the Ganges to seek purification and blessings. The exchange of sesame-based sweets and traditional foods during this festival symbolizes the sharing of warmth and prosperity within communities.

Makar Sankranti Rituals

RITUAL BATHS

People take special baths in holy rivers, like the Ganges, during Makar Sankranti.
This tradition is believed to clean the soul and forgive sins.
Prayers are offered to the Sun God during sunrise to show thanks for life.

GENEROUS GIVING

Donating sesame seeds, jaggery, and food is a common practice.
This shows kindness and sharing wealth with others.

SYMBOLIC LIGHTS

Lighting lamps and bonfires represents dispelling darkness and ignorance.

KITE-FLYING TRADITION

In places like Gujarat and Rajasthan, people fly colorful kites.
Kite-flying symbolizes breaking barriers and reaching high goals.
Competitions make the festivities exciting and friendly.

SPECIAL FOODS

Sesame seeds and jaggery are used in preparing special foods.
Tilgul, a sweet made from sesame seeds and jaggery, is shared among friends and family.

DIVERSE PRACTICES

Rituals vary across regions, showing India's diverse culture.
Even with differences, the celebrations share the spirit of harmony, prosperity, and hope for better times.