Why is it Special?
Sankranti is the only Indian festival based on the solar calendar, falling on January 14 every year. The day marks longer days ahead and is considered highly auspicious.
Festivals & Occasions
Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti marks the sun transition into Capricorn (Makar), beginning the auspicious Uttarayan - the suns northward journey. It is a harvest festival celebrated across India.
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Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti marks the sun transition into Capricorn (Makar), beginning the auspicious Uttarayan - the suns northward journey. It is a harvest festival celebrated across India.
Regional Celebrations
In Punjab it is Lohri, in Tamil Nadu Pongal, in Gujarat the International Kite Festival, in Bengal Poush Sankranti, and in Maharashtra couples exchange til-gul sweets with the greeting "Til-gul ghya, god god bola".
Significance
Flying kites, eating til (sesame) sweets and taking holy dips in rivers are the main traditions. It celebrates gratitude for the harvest and the beginning of the spring season.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Makar Sankranti always on January 14?
Because it follows the solar calendar - the suns entry into Capricorn is a fixed astronomical event, so the date stays constant.
What is the significance of til-gul?
Sesame and jaggery sweets symbolize sweetness in speech and warmth in relationships - the greeting encourages people to speak sweetly.