Makar Sankranti – Shubh Tithee

Puja Checklist Progress

0 of 4 steps completed

Essential Rituals & Puja Steps

Step 1: Holy Bathing: Taking a dip in sacred rivers like the Ganges to wash away sins and invoke solar blessings.
Step 2: Til-Gul Exchange: Exchanging sweets made of sesame seeds and jaggery while saying 'Til gul ghya, god god bola' (speak sweet words).
Step 3: Kite Flying: Flying colorful kites in the open air, traditionally done to expose the body to healthy winter sunlight.
Step 4: Bonfire Celebrations: Lighting bonfires (Lohri) in Northern India to mark the end of the coldest winter days.

History & Significance

Makar Sankranti is a solar festival marking the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makara), signaling the start of longer days and the harvest season (Uttarayan). Unlike most Hindu festivals which follow the lunar calendar, Makar Sankranti follows the solar cycle and usually falls on January 14. Celebrated across India with different names like Pongal (Tamil Nadu), Lohri (Punjab), and Bihu (Assam), it represents gratitude to the Sun God for agricultural abundance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Makar Sankranti celebrated on the same date every year?

It follows the solar calendar (solar transit of the Sun into Capricorn), which matches the Gregorian calendar cycle, unlike lunar festivals which shift dates yearly.

What is the significance of sesame (Til) and jaggery on Makar Sankranti?

Sesame and jaggery are healthy winter foods that keep the body warm. Exchanging them symbolizes spreading sweetness, peace, and ending personal grudges.