Makar Sankranti Calendar
Makar Sankranti marks the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makara). It celebrates the harvest, the end of winter, and the beginning of longer days.
Year:
Harvest and Sun Transition
Makar Sankranti is one of the few Hindu festivals based on the solar calendar. It marks the sun’s transit into Makara Rashi (Capricorn), signaling the end of winter and the beginning of longer days (Uttarayan).
Diverse Celebrations
- North India (Lohri/Sankranti): Celebrated with bonfires and popcorn/peanut offerings.
- Gujarat (Uttarayan): The sky fills with colorful kites. "Kai Po Che!" echoes from rooftops.
- South India (Pongal): A four-day harvest festival where a sweet dish "Pongal" is prepared.
- Holy Dip: Millions usually take a holy dip in the Ganges, especially at the Kumbh Mela or Ganga Sagar, to cleanse sins.