Makar Sankranti is a major festival celebrated in India and marks the beginning of the agricultural season. It is celebrated on the 14th of January every year and marks the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of Makara (Capricorn). It is a time of great celebration and is marked by various rituals and traditions. The festival is celebrated in different parts of India with different names and customs. In the state of Gujarat, it is celebrated as Uttarayan, where people fly kites to mark the occasion. In Maharashtra, it is known as Makar Sankranti and is celebrated by taking a dip in holy rivers, especially the Godavari, and offering prayers to the Sun God. In the state of Andhra Pradesh, the festival is known as Sankranti and is celebrated by taking part in bullock cart races and flying kites.
One of the main rituals of Makar Sankranti is taking a dip in holy rivers. This is believed to purify the body and soul and wash away past sins. People from all over India flock to the banks of the Ganges, the Godavari, and other sacred rivers to take a dip. The festival is also an occasion to visit friends and relatives and exchange sweets and savouries. Another important ritual of Makar Sankranti is the offering of prayers to the Sun God. The Sun is considered to be the source of energy and life and is revered as a symbol of knowledge, wisdom, and power. People offer prayers to the Sun God to seek blessings for a good harvest, prosperity, and good health.
Makar Sankranti is also a time for traditional sports and games. In many parts of India, bullock cart races and kite flying competitions are organized. The bullock cart races are a traditional sport and are held in rural areas to celebrate the beginning of the agricultural season. Kite flying is also a popular activity during Makar Sankranti and is enjoyed by people of all ages. In conclusion, Makar Sankranti is a major festival celebrated in India that marks the beginning of the agricultural season. It is a time of great celebration and is marked by various rituals and traditions such as taking a dip in holy rivers, offering prayers to the Sun God, visiting friends and relatives, and participating in traditional sports and games. The festival brings people together and promotes a sense of community and unity.