Makar Sankranti is one of India’s most celebrated and auspicious festivals. Known for its vibrant customs, heartwarming traditions, and deep spiritual meaning, Makar Sankranti 2025 brings together families and communities across the country. Here’s everything you need to know about this harvest festival, its unique essence, and the best ways to celebrate it this year.
What is Makar Sankranti?
Makar Sankranti is a Hindu festival marking the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign Capricorn (Makara Rashi) from Sagittarius. This celestial event usually occurs on January 14 each year and signifies the end of winter and the arrival of longer, warmer days. For farmers, this is a time of gratitude as it kicks off the harvest season and brings hope for a prosperous year ahead.
Makar Sankranti 2025 Date and Timing
In 2025, Makar Sankranti will be celebrated on Tuesday, January 14. The auspicious period or Punya Kaal for rituals is from 9:03 AM to 5:46 PM. Engaging in charitable activities, festive rituals, and prayers during this time is believed to bring prosperity and blessings to families.
Significance of Makar Sankranti
- End of Winter: Symbolizes the conclusion of the harsh winter and the start of longer days.
- Harvest Festival: Marks the arrival of the harvest season, offering thanks to the Sun God for a bountiful yield.
- Spiritual Importance: Considered highly auspicious for performing rituals like taking a holy bath in sacred rivers, giving donations, and participating in prayers.
- Cultural Unity: Different regions in India celebrate it with unique names and customs, including Pongal in Tamil Nadu, Lohri in Punjab, Uttarayan in Gujarat, and Magh Bihu in Assam.
Makar Sankranti Celebration Across Indian States
Makar Sankranti is observed in every corner of India, uniting people in the spirit of harvest and gratitude. Each state brings its own flavor to the festival with unique traditions, names, and rituals. Here’s an overview of how Makar Sankranti is celebrated in different Indian states:
Regional Celebrations and Festive Names
| State/Region | Local Name | How the Festival is Celebrated |
|---|---|---|
| Andhra Pradesh | Makar Sankranti | Four-day celebration featuring cultural activities, rituals, and harvest-related events. |
| Assam | Bhogali Bihu | The festival is marked by community feasts, bonfires, and various social gatherings. |
| Punjab | Lohri (Eve) | Celebrated on the eve of Makar Sankranti with bonfires, folk dances, and music symbolizing the harvest’s start. |
| Delhi & Haryana | Sukarat | Known as Sukarat, families gather for community meals and local customs that highlight togetherness. |
| Gujarat | Uttarayan | Famous for magnificent kite flying festivals and vibrant outdoor festivities. |
| Madhya Pradesh | Makar Sankranti | People exchange sweets and participate in local cultural programs and gatherings. |
| Maharashtra | Makar Sankranti | The sky is dotted with kites, bonfires are lit, and people exchange tilgul (sesame sweets) as a gesture of goodwill. |
| Odisha | Makar Sankranti | Bonfires, community feasts, and distinct local traditions mark the celebration. |
| Tamil Nadu | Pongal | A grand four-day festival, Pongal features feasts, traditional rituals, and special prayers for the harvest. |
| Jharkhand, Bihar & Uttar Pradesh | Khichdi Parwa | Devotees take a holy dip in the Ganges, eat Khichdi, and offer prayers for prosperity. |
| West Bengal | Sankranti/Paush Parbon | Celebrated over three days, starting with Sankranti, featuring special rituals and community gatherings. |
How is Makar Sankranti Celebrated?
1. Kite Flying
The skies fill with colorful kites as people, especially in Gujarat and Maharashtra, compete to outfly each other. The kite festival symbolizes freedom and the joy of new beginnings.
2. Traditional Foods
Special sweets like til-gud (sesame and jaggery laddoos), puran poli, and khichdi are prepared and shared with family and friends. These foods are believed to bring health, harmony, and sweetness to relationships.
3. Holy Dips and Prayers
Taking a dip in holy rivers, especially the Ganga and Yamuna, is a ritual meant to purify the soul and wash away sins. Devotees offer prayers to Surya, the Sun God, seeking his blessings for well-being and prosperity.
4. Bonfires and Social Gatherings
In Punjab, Makar Sankranti coincides with Lohri, which features bonfires, folk songs, and joyful dances. In Maharashtra and Karnataka, women exchange greeting cards and symbolic gifts, fostering community bonds.
5. Charity and Giving
Acts of charity such as donating clothes, grains, and sweets to those in need are an essential part of the festival. Giving is considered lucky and spiritually uplifting.
Famous Regional Names and Variations
| State/Region | Local Name | Key Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| Tamil Nadu | Pongal | Cooking and offering “Pongal” |
| Punjab/Haryana | Lohri | Bonfire, song, dance |
| Assam | Magh Bihu | Community feasts |
| Gujarat | Uttarayan | International kite festival |
| Maharashtra | Makar Sankranti | Til-gud, haldi-kumkum ritual |
Tips for a Joyful Makar Sankranti 2025
- Plan a family kite-flying session and enjoy traditional sweets.
- Participate in local community events or organize a small gathering at home.
- Perform rituals and offer prayers to the Sun God.
- Consider acts of charity to spread happiness and positivity around you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Why is sesame and jaggery important on Makar Sankranti?
Q2. Can non-Hindus celebrate Makar Sankranti?
Absolutely! Makar Sankranti transcends religious boundaries and invites everyone to enjoy its fun, food, and message of positivity.