How is Makar Sankranti Celebrated Across India?

Every year, the winter solstice and the beginning of longer days are celebrated towards the end of January. This day has been observed as the harvest festival or Makar Sankranti in India and Nepal since civilization began.

This festival day, also known as Maghi, is devoted to the worship of the Sun. Unlike other holidays, which follow the lunar calendar, Makar Sankranti reflects the solar cycle and is held practically every year on the same day.

Makar Sankranti Bengali date 2023 will be observed on January 14th, commemorating the Sun's passage into the Makara Rashi or Capricorn sign.

Here's why we celebrate it and how it is celebrated throughout different states of India.

Significance of Makar Sankranti

The migration of the Sun into 'Makara Raashi' or the 'zodiac of Capricorn' is termed Makar Sankranti. This event heralds the conclusion of the long, frigid winter months and the arrival of spring.

As a result, it is a celebration of the changing of seasons - from a harsher to a warmer climate—a symbol of optimism and hope.

Because it is the harvest festival, it is a time of joy, plenty, and celebration in farming communities, as they receive the rewards of their labor. It's also a time for family gatherings and erasing the past.

Because Makar Sankranti is observed in different states, each has its traditions. Let's look at the traditions of Indian states.

Makar Sankranti Celebration in India

Punjab

In Punjab, Makar Sankranti is known as 'Lohri,' It is celebrated with a slew of colors, dancing, music, bonfires, and vigor. As they walk door to house collecting their 'treasure,' the children chant 'Dulhabhatti' (sweets and savories such as popcorn, rewri, peanuts, jaggery, gajak, and so on).

Tamil Nadu

There is a four-day celebration in Tamil Nadu:

The first day is Bhogi Pandigai, while the second is Thai Pongal. Day 3 is Maattu Pongal, while Day 4 is Kaanum Pongal.

People cook amazing foods and distribute gift items to family and friends. If you wish to gift sweet or DIY cards, take help from the gift design academy and shower love.

West Bengal

Sankranti, also known as Poush Sankranti in Bengal. Freshly harvested paddy and date palm syrup in the form of Khejurer Gur and Patali is used to manufacture a variety of traditional Bengali sweets known as 'Pitha.' If you need help arranging the celebration, contact the best party organizers in Kolkata to ease your work.

Odisha

In Odisha, the celebration is called Makara Sankranti. They make makara chaula, uncooked newly harvested rice, banana, coconut, jaggery, sesame, rasagola, Khai/Liaa, and chhena puddings for naivedya to gods and goddesses. The onset of winter necessitates a shift in eating habits and the consumption of nutritious and rich foods.

Assam

In Assam, Makar Sankranti celebrations might continue for up to a week. The event, known as Magh Bihu in certain regions, commemorates the conclusion of the harvest season. On the actual day of the celebration, games such as likely-Bonga (pot-breaking) and buffalo fighting take place.

One Festival, Different Names!

As the year 2023 begins with cautious hope, the season of celebrations starts into high gear with Makar Sankranti. This ancient occasion is honored differently in each state of India and is celebrated throughout the country with activities.

Every tourist should take part in the kite festival to commemorate Makar Sankranti. Many people will assemble in an open area to fly kites of various shapes and colors. This is a fantastic opportunity to meet locals and make new friends.

Do you want to observe Makar Sankranti but need help knowing where to begin? Book a Volvo bus on rent in Kolkata and travel through the city/country, capturing the celebration.