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Makar Sankranti. Colorful kites in the sky – part of the Hindu celebration of Makar Sankranti. Videos (including 4K), graphics, social media. English and Spanish.
Makar Sankranti. Colorful kites in the sky – part of the Hindu celebration of Makar Sankranti. Videos (including 4K), graphics, social media. English and Spanish.
Makar Sankranti is a major Hindu festival celebrated in India and other parts of South Asia, marking the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makar) as it begins its northward journey (Uttarayana). Observed annually on January 14 or 15, depending on solar alignments, it is a harvest festival that signifies the end of the winter solstice and the onset of longer, warmer days. This astronomical event is seen as a period of renewal and optimism, and it carries deep spiritual and agricultural significance. Communities across India celebrate this festival with rituals, prayers, and joyous activities tailored to their regional customs.
The Spiritual and Cultural Significance
Makar Sankranti holds a special place in Hindu spirituality as it is considered an auspicious time for beginning new ventures, performing religious practices, and seeking blessings. Many people take holy dips in sacred rivers like the Ganges, Yamuna, or Godavari, believing it will cleanse their sins and bestow prosperity. Devotees also worship the Sun God, Surya, expressing gratitude for the life-giving energy that sustains agriculture. The festival underscores the harmonious relationship between humans and nature, highlighting the importance of sunlight in agricultural productivity and daily life.
The Joy of Kite Flying
One of the most iconic traditions associated with Makar Sankranti is kite flying, particularly in states like Gujarat and Rajasthan. The practice symbolizes the ascent of human spirits toward the divine, aligning with the Sun’s northward journey. Vibrant kites fill the skies as families and communities come together on rooftops to celebrate. The act of flying kites fosters social bonds, bringing people of all ages together in a spirit of friendly competition and festivity. The skies become a tapestry of color, reflecting the jubilant mood of the season.
Regional Variations in Celebrations
Makar Sankranti is celebrated under different names and with unique customs across India. In Punjab, it coincides with Lohri, a festival featuring bonfires and folk dances. In Tamil Nadu, it is known as Pongal, marked by cooking a traditional sweet dish made of rice, milk, and jaggery. In Maharashtra, people exchange sesame and jaggery sweets with the phrase “Tilgul ghya, god god bola” (Take sweets and speak sweetly). These regional variations demonstrate the diversity of Indian culture while sharing a common theme of gratitude and hope for the future.
The Universal Message of Makar Sankranti
Beyond its cultural and religious aspects, Makar Sankranti carries a universal message of renewal, community, and harmony with nature. It emphasizes the value of sharing, as people exchange food and gifts, reinforcing bonds of kinship and friendship. The festival’s themes of light overcoming darkness and renewal resonate across cultures and religions, making it a source of inspiration for all. Through its joyous rituals and community activities, Makar Sankranti reminds us of the cyclical rhythms of life and the importance of cherishing the abundance that nature provides.
