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.
In a unique celebration, Union Home Minister Amit Shah engaged in kite-flying festivities in Ahmedabad with Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel on the auspicious occasion of Makar Sankranti. The locals of Shantiniketan Society welcomed the prominent leaders and decorated the area with colorful kites and rangolis. They were joined by hundreds of people on nearby rooftops and terraces to catch a glimpse of the Home Minister. Known by different names across India, Makar Sankranti marks the beginning of longer days and is celebrated with great enthusiasm, making it a festival of unwavering faith in Indian culture and tradition.
Fans and critics alike are raving about the recently released Telugu film "Sankranthiki Vasthunam" starring Venkatesh Daggubati and Aishwarya Rajesh. Directed by Anil Ravipudi, the film has been praised for its hilarious comedy and non-stop action, making it the perfect festive watch. Fans have also been loving the chemistry between Venkatesh and Aishwarya on screen and are declaring the film a sure-fire blockbuster.
Fans of Pawan Kalyan rejoice as the first promo and release date for the highly-anticipated Hari Hara Veera Mallu have been announced. The film, which marks the actor's first pan-Indian project, boasts an ensemble cast and a captivating soundtrack by Oscar-winner M.M. Keeravaani. With a teaser full of action and drama, this film is definitely one to look out for in 2025.
The much-awaited horror-comedy starring Prabhas, directed by Maruthi and produced by Viswa Prasad, releases a joyful new poster to celebrate Sankranthi and Pongal. The vibrant poster teases audiences with Prabhas' striking look and a sneak peek into the film's unique world. Fans can't wait for the movie's release in five languages, where Prabhas takes on a mischievous yet powerful spirit.
Share your love and blessings this Lohri with our heartfelt wishes and make the festival of harvest and joy a memorable one with your loved ones.
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The state of Assam in India celebrates Magh Bihu, also known as Bhogali Bihu, as a harvest festival to mark the end of the harvesting season. This lively celebration brings people together through traditional practices, feasting, and community building. This year, it will be celebrated on January 15. May this festival bring you happiness, prosperity, and success with your loved ones.
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Victory Venkatesh, along with director Anil Ravipudi, is ready to entertain audiences with their latest release "Sankranthiki Vasthunam". With its catchy songs, hilarious trailer, and aggressive marketing tactics, this comedy entertainer has already gained immense popularity and is currently selling over 15K tickets per hour on Book My Show. Aiming to break records and become Venky's biggest opener, the team is also expecting it to surpass the success of "F2" due to the high ticket rates in Andhra Pradesh.