This year, Makar Sankranti, an auspicious Hindu festival, will be celebrated on Tuesday, January 14, 2025. Along with marking the end of winter and the beginning of longer days, the festival also celebrates the harvest season with vibrant kite flying, communal bonfires, and the enjoyment of regional delicacies. Explore the significance and origins of this festival through the lens of food.
Makar Sankranti, celebrated on January 14th, is an auspicious Hindu festival that marks the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of the longer days. It is a time of celebration, thanksgiving, and the honoring of the sun god, Surya.
The origins of Makar Sankranti can be traced back to ancient Indian mythology. It is believed that on this day, the sun enters the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makara) after its six-month-long journey in the southern hemisphere. This astronomical event is known as "Sankranti," and it signifies the beginning of the northward movement of the sun.
In Hindu mythology, the god Surya is associated with life-sustaining warmth and energy. Makar Sankranti is celebrated as a day to offer gratitude to Surya for his bounty and blessings. The festival also marks the end of the harvest season, and farmers express their joy and gratitude for a successful harvest.
Makar Sankranti is a colorful and vibrant festival celebrated throughout India. It is a time for families and communities to come together and engage in traditional rituals and festivities. Some of the most common traditions include:
1. When is Makar Sankranti celebrated? Answer: Makar Sankranti is celebrated on January 14th every year.
2. What is the significance of Makar Sankranti? Answer: Makar Sankranti marks the end of winter and the beginning of longer days. It is also a harvest festival and a time to honor the sun god, Surya.
3. What are some of the common traditions during Makar Sankranti? Answer: Kite flying, bonfires, and the enjoyment of regional delicacies are among the most common traditions.
4. What are some of the regional delicacies prepared during Makar Sankranti? Answer: Tilgul (sesame seed balls), sakkarai pongal (sweet rice with jaggery), and kichdi (a savory rice and lentil dish) are some popular delicacies.
5. How is Makar Sankranti celebrated in different parts of India? Answer: Makar Sankranti is celebrated with different names and traditions in various parts of India. In Punjab, it is known as Lohri, while in Bengal, it is called Poush Mela.
At the commencement of the Maha Kumbh Mela, Uttar Pradesh's Director General of Police Prashant Kumar highlighted the use of advanced technologies like drones and CCTV for enhanced security and smooth operations. He also mentioned the positive feedback from devotees and the implementation of a detailed traffic plan for a safe and convenient experience. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also praised the event, calling it a special day for millions of people who uphold Indian values and culture.
The festival of Lohri, celebrated on January 13, marks the end of winter and beginning of the harvest season in India. It is a widely celebrated festival, especially in the northern region, where families come together to enjoy bonfires, traditional dances, and delicious food. As we celebrate Lohri 2025, it is a perfect time to send heartfelt wishes and spread the joy of this festival with loved ones. Here are some heartfelt messages, greetings, and images to make the occasion memorable.
Lohri, a vibrant festival widely observed in North Indian states, holds immense cultural significance as a unifying force that brings families and communities together in celebration. As we mark the festival with bonfires, traditional music, and festive food, there is still some debate over the exact date of Lohri. While some argue for January 13, others believe it should be celebrated on January 14. However, according to Drik Panchang, Lohri will officially be celebrated on January 13 this year, making way for Makar Sankranti on January 14. Let's delve into the festival's history, significance, and rituals surrounding the beloved tradition.
The new Z-Morh tunnel, built using state-of-the-art technology, will make the scenic Sonamarg tourist resort in Jammu and Kashmir accessible throughout the year. It will also reduce travel time and allow vehicles to travel at faster speeds. The project, which faced setbacks due to financial stress, was finally completed after a decade and was inaugurated by PM Modi along with other top officials. Named after late BJP leader Z-Morh, the tunnel is a major feat of engineering in the picturesque valley of Kashmir.
As the Maha Kumbh 2025 began in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, lakhs of devoted pilgrims from different backgrounds took a holy dip in the river Ganga despite the harsh weather conditions. The state government reported that 60 lakh pilgrims had already taken the dip by 9:30 am and a large number of devotees from India and abroad also joined in the celebrations. The ceremony was inaugurated by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who highlighted the message of unity in diversity and the encounter with Sanatan for the welfare of humanity in Prayagraj.
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The GMC Sankranti Sambaralu event at NTR Municipal Corporation Stadium in Guntur saw the participation of 72 women in the rangoli and mehendi competitions, with prizes given to the top three winners. GMC Commissioner Puli Srinivasulu and MLA Galla Madhavi were present to witness the colorful display of creativity and tradition. This event is a reflection of Telugu culture and aims to preserve and celebrate old traditions.
As we celebrate the harvest festival of Lohri, we bring to you a collection of Whatsapp wishes and greetings to share with your loved ones. From the warmth of bonfire to the sweetness of gur and the joy of dancing to the beats of dhol, Lohri brings with it an endless celebration of happiness and togetherness. So, spread the festive spirit with these heartwarming greetings and embrace the beginning of new adventures and fruitful endeavors.
With the festive season around the corner, a viral Instagram video has captured a fun and creative way to make your drink look like a Christmas tree. The idea involves using rosemary leaves to decorate your glass, giving it a festive twist. The video shows a gardener named Michael Griffiths demonstrating this simple hack, making everyone crave for a glass of bubbly with a mini Christmas tree in it.