Makar Sankranti is one of the most significant harvest festivals in India. It marks the beginning of the sun's journey towards the northern hemisphere, known as the Uttarayan, marking the beginning of longer days. The festival is dedicated to the sun god, Surya, and is observed to mark a new beginning. Many devotees take a dip in sacred rivers or lakes to purify themselves and seek blessings from the sun god. Flying kites on Makar Sankranti is a popular tradition in many parts of India, particularly in the states of Gujarat, and Rajasthan.
Why do we fly kites on Makar Sankranti?
The tradition of flying kites on this day is rooted in ancient ideas that emphasized the importance of exposure to sunlight, particularly during the winter months. By flying kites on Makar Sankranti, people are encouraged to spend time outdoors, soaking up the sun's rays and replenishing their vitamin D levels.
Kites flying high in the sky are believed to be a way of expressing gratitude to the sun god, who is worshipped on Makar Sankranti.
Various names of Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti is known by various names in different parts of the country. It is known as Pedda Panduga in Andhra Pradesh, Makara Sankranti in Karnataka & Telangana, Pongal in Tamil Nadu, Magh Bihu in Assam, Makara Chaula in Odisha, Til Sakraat or Dahi Chura in Bihar, Makaravilakku in Kerala, Poush Sankranti in West Bengal, Magha Saaji in Himachal Pradesh, Haldi Kumkum in Maharashtra and Maghi Sankrant in Goa.