Makar Sankranti, also known as Uttarayana, Makar, or simply Sankranti is a festival that is celebrated in India with great enthusiasm and joy. It is a harvest festival that marks the beginning of the harvest season and the end of the winter solstice. The festival is celebrated in different parts of India with different names and customs. Some of the common customs include:
- Cleaning and decorating homes
- Preparing traditional sweets and delicacies
- Flying kites
- Lighting bonfires
- Wearing new clothes
- Exchanging gifts
The Legends and Mythology Behind Sankranti
Sankranti has several legends and mythology associated with it. Here are some of the most popular ones:
- According to Hindu mythology, Sankranti marks the day when the Sun enters the zodiac sign of Capricorn. It is believed that on this day, Lord Surya visits his son Shani, who is the lord of Capricorn. This is why Sankranti is also known as Makar Sankranti.
- Another popular legend associated with Sankranti is the story of Bhishma Pitamah. It is believed that Bhishma Pitamah, who was a great warrior, chose to die on the day of Sankranti. He had the power to choose the time of his death, and he chose this day because it was considered to be an auspicious day.
- In some parts of India, Sankranti is also associated with the legend of Lord Vishnu. It is believed that on this day, Lord Vishnu ended the tyranny of the demon king Narakasura and saved the world from his evil deeds.
Regional Variations: How Different States Celebrate Sankranti in Unique Ways
Sankranti is celebrated in different parts of India with different names and customs. Here are some of the most popular regional variations:
Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti is one of the most popular versions of Sankranti and is celebrated in different parts of India. Here are some of the customs associated with Makar Sankranti:
- In Maharashtra, people exchange tilgul ladoos and greet each other with the phrase “tilgul ghya, god god bola” which means “eat tilgul and speak sweetly”.
- In Gujarat, people fly kites and prepare traditional sweets like undhiyu and chikki.
- In Tamil Nadu, the festival is known as Pongal and is celebrated for four days. People prepare sweet rice dishes and decorate their homes with kolams.
- In Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, people prepare traditional dishes like pulihora, bobbatlu, and fly kites.
Lohri
Lohri is a popular version of Sankranti that is celebrated in Punjab. Here are some of the customs associated with Lohri:
- People light bonfires and dance around them.
- They sing traditional songs and exchange sweets and savories.
- They also throw popcorn and puffed rice into the fire as a symbol of offering to the gods.
Sankranti Food Delights: Traditional Recipes That Make the Festival Special
Sankranti is a festival that is known for its traditional food delights. Here are some of the most popular recipes:
- Tilgul Ladoo: Tilgul ladoo is a sweet delicacy that is made with sesame seeds and jaggery. It is a popular sweet that is exchanged during Sankranti.
- Sesame Sweets: Sesame sweets are another popular delicacy that is made with sesame seeds and jaggery. They are known for their crunchy texture and sweet taste.
- Pongal: Pongal is a sweet rice dish that is prepared during Sankranti. It is made with rice, jaggery, and milk and is flavored with cardamom and saffron.
- Undhiyu: Undhiyu is a traditional Gujarati dish that is made with a variety of vegetables and spices. It is a popular dish that is prepared during Sankranti.
Sankrant as a Time for Kite Flying: Unveiling the Excitement and Traditions
Kite flying is an integral part of Sankranti celebrations. The skies come alive with colorful kites, and the excitement is contagious. Here are some key aspects of this cherished tradition:
- Kite Festivals in India: Several cities in India host kite festivals during Sankranti. The International Kite Festival in Gujarat and the Kite Festival in Jaipur are renowned for their grandeur.
- Kite Flying Traditions: Different regions have their unique kite flying traditions. In some places, people compete to cut each other’s kites using special threads coated with a mixture of glue and powdered glass, known as manja.
Embracing the Spirit of Sankrant for Joyous Celebrations and New Beginnings
Sankranti, the festival of harvest and renewal, brings people together to celebrate the bountiful harvest and embrace new beginnings. With its rich cultural significance, delicious food, and vibrant traditions, Sankranti is a time of joy and celebration in India. So, let’s immerse ourselves in the spirit of Sankranti and create memories that will last a lifetime.
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