Every year, Makar Sankranti is celebrated with great enthusiasm as people come together to fly colourful kites and commemorate the harvest season. In 2025, the festival falls on January 14 and marks the beginning of longer days and a time for reflection and gratitude. As the Sun God is honored for sustaining life on Earth, let's spread well-wishes and greetings among loved ones to celebrate the true spirit of Uttarayan.
Uttarayan: A Vibrant Festival of Kites and Gratitude
Uttarayan, also known as Makar Sankranti, is a vibrant festival celebrated in India to mark the transition of the sun into the Capricorn constellation. This festival holds immense cultural and religious significance, symbolizing the arrival of longer days and warmer weather.
Background
The origins of Uttarayan lie in ancient Hindu mythology. According to the legend, the sun god Surya was angered by his son, Saturn, and cursed him to fall from heaven. Karna, a legendary warrior, intervened and saved Saturn by offering him a portion of his own life. In gratitude, Saturn granted Karna the power to control the sun's movement.
Uttarayan commemorates the reconciliation of Surya and Saturn. It is believed that during this time, the sun is at its strongest and has the ability to dispel darkness and negativity. The festival is associated with the harvest season, marking the end of winter and the beginning of spring.
Customs and Traditions
The most prominent tradition of Uttarayan is kite flying. People of all ages gather on rooftops, fields, and open spaces to fly colorful and elaborately designed kites. The kites are often made of paper or thin fabric, adorned with intricate patterns and designs.
Kite competitions are held in various regions of India. The goal is to cut the strings of other kites by flying one's own kite at a higher altitude. This competitive spirit adds to the excitement and camaraderie of the festival.
Other traditions include:
FAQs
1. When is Uttarayan celebrated?
Uttarayan is celebrated annually on January 14, marking the transition of the sun into the Capricorn constellation.
2. What is the significance of kites in Uttarayan?
Kite flying symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness. It is also believed that the wind carries away negativity and evil thoughts, leaving the way for prosperity and happiness.
3. What are some safety tips for kite flying?
4. How is Uttarayan celebrated in different parts of India?
Uttarayan is celebrated with variations in customs and traditions across different regions of India. In Gujarat, it is known as Uttarayan and is a major cultural event. In Punjab, it is called Maghi and is associated with harvest and fertility rituals.
5. What was the most memorable Uttarayan celebration in recent history?
In 2021, despite the COVID-19 pandemic, Uttarayan was celebrated with great fervor in Gujarat. The city of Ahmedabad witnessed a record-breaking number of kites in the sky, creating a vibrant spectacle of colors and patterns.
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