Makar Sankranti 2024: Date, Time, History, Significance And More

Makar Sankranti, a Hindu festival celebrated across India, is known by various names such as Uttarayan, Khichdi Parv, Magh Bihu and Pongal in different regions. This festival marks the transition of the Sun from Sagittarius to Capricorn according to Vedic astrology, and it holds cultural significance for many.

This year, Makar Sankranti falls on January 15, a day after Lohri. According to Drik Panchang, the Sankranti time is 2:45 am on January 15. The Punya Kala lasts from 7:15 am to 8:07 pm (10 hours, 31 minutes), and Maha Punya Kala is from 7:15 am to 9:00 am (1 hour, 45 minutes).

Makar Sankranti signifies the end of winter and the beginning of a new agricultural cycle. It marks longer days and is a time of celebration and joy across India.

The day is associated with the Hindu deity Sankranti, who defeated a demon called Sankarasur. People bathe in holy rivers, chant prayers to the Sun God, and engage in various traditions and festivities. It is a time for farmers to pray for a fruitful harvest.

Flying kites on Makar Sankranti is believed to expose people to the Sun's rays, preventing skin infections and illnesses associated with winter. It is also seen as an expression of gratitude to the Gods. Kite-flying is particularly popular in Gujarat.

Sesame seeds, a key element of Makar Sankranti celebrations, are consumed as they are believed to have Ayurvedic properties. According to Hindu mythology, sesame seeds originated from the sweat of Lord Vishnu. They are believed to help in controlling blood pressure, reducing stress, and improving bone density.

Makar Sankranti goes by different names in various states of India:

• Uttar Pradesh: Khichdi

• Gujarat: Uttarayan

• Odisha: Makara Chaula

• Bihar: Til Sakraat or Dahi Chura

• Kerala: Makaravilakku

• Karnataka: Suggi

• West Bengal: Poush Sankranti

• Maharashtra: Haldi Kumkum

• Goa: Maghi Sankrant

• Himachal Pradesh: Magha Saaji

• Assam: Magh Bihu

• Tamil Nadu: Pongal