Makar Sankranti is one of the most significant Hindu festivals, celebrated as the Sun transitions into the zodiac sign Capricorn (Makar). Falling on January 14, 2025, it marks the Sun’s entry into the northern hemisphere, a celestial event known as Uttarayan. This day holds immense spiritual value, with special prayers dedicated to Surya Dev (Sun God) and Lord Vishnu. Across India, Makar Sankranti is observed with devotion and joy, signifying prosperity, enlightenment, and growth.
What Does Makar Sankranti Mean?
The term “Makar Sankranti” is derived from:
Makar: Capricorn, Sankranti: Transition
Sankranti occurs when the Sun shifts from one zodiac sign to another, marking a celestial shift that has both astronomical and cultural significance. The transition into Capricorn is celebrated as Makar Sankranti, which also signifies the end of Dakshinayan (the southern solstice) and the beginning of Uttarayan (the northern solstice). Uttarayan is a time of increasing daylight, symbolizing new beginnings, growth, and prosperity.
Significance of Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti holds a special place in Hindu traditions. According to scriptures, Uttarayan is considered the day of the gods, while Dakshinayan represents their night. This day is believed to end Kharmas, a period considered inauspicious for important ceremonies. With Makar Sankranti, auspicious activities such as weddings, housewarming ceremonies, and other religious rituals resume.
Another significant aspect of the festival is the tradition of taking a holy dip in rivers such as the Ganga or Sangam in Prayagraj. It is believed that bathing in these sacred waters on Makar Sankranti washes away sins and brings blessings. Alongside, acts of charity hold immense importance. Devotees often donate sesame seeds, jaggery, khichdi, blankets, and warm clothes to the needy, spreading joy and prosperity.
How Makar Sankranti is Celebrated Across India
The festival is celebrated with enthusiasm across the country. Devotees wake up early to take a holy bath and offer arghya (water offerings) to Surya Dev. Many also chant the Aditya Hridaya Stotra for divine blessings. Traditional foods such as khichdi and til laddoos (sesame sweets) are prepared and shared with family and friends, adding a flavor of togetherness to the celebrations.
In Rajasthan, Makar Sankranti is particularly important for married women, who seek blessings from their mothers-in-law by offering Vayana (auspicious items). Meanwhile, in Assam, the festival is celebrated as Bihu, marking the New Year and the harvest season. Bonfires, traditional dishes, and offerings to the Fire God are integral to Bihu festivities.
Makar Sankranti Special Rituals: Offering Arghya to the Sun Based on Zodiac Signs
Astrology plays a significant role in Makar Sankranti celebrations. Offering arghya to the Sun using specific ingredients based on one’s zodiac sign is believed to amplify the benefits. Here’s a guide:
- Aries: Kumkum, red flowers, and sesame seeds.
- Taurus: White sandalwood, milk, rice, and sesame seeds.
- Gemini: Sesame seeds, durva grass, and flowers.
- Cancer: Milk, rice, and sesame seeds.
- Leo: Kumkum, red flowers, and sesame seeds.
- Virgo: Sesame seeds, durva grass, and flowers.
- Libra: White sandalwood, milk, white flowers, and sesame seeds.
- Scorpio: Red flowers, turmeric, and sesame seeds.
- Sagittarius: Turmeric, saffron, yellow flowers, and sesame seeds.
- Capricorn: Blue flowers, black urad dal, mustard oil, and sesame seeds.
- Aquarius: Black-blue flowers and sesame seeds.
- Pisces: Turmeric, saffron, yellow flowers, and sesame seeds.
Makar Sankranti 2025: First Amrit Snan of Maha Kumbh
This year’s Makar Sankranti is even more special as it coincides with the first Amrit Snan (holy dip) of the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj. Starting with Paush Purnima, the Maha Kumbh is one of the largest spiritual gatherings, drawing millions of devotees. Taking a holy dip during the Amrit Snan is believed to purify one’s soul and pave the way for moksha (salvation).
Puja Vidhi for Makar Sankranti
To perform the Sankranti Puja, follow these steps:
- Wake up early and take a holy bath, preferably in a sacred river or with Ganga water.
- Wear clean and auspicious clothes, ideally yellow.
- Offer water to Surya Dev along with prayers and rituals.
- Chant the Surya Chalisa or Aditya Hridaya Stotra to seek blessings.
Why Khichdi is Important on Makar Sankranti
Khichdi, a humble and nourishing dish, holds a special place in Sankranti celebrations. It is not only consumed as part of the festive meal but also offered to Surya Dev, Shani Dev, and Lord Vishnu. This practice symbolizes gratitude and reminds devotees of the value of simplicity and humility.
Sankranti is more than just a festival—it is a celebration of change, gratitude, and spiritual growth. Through prayers, donations, and rituals, devotees cleanse their souls and embrace new beginnings.
This Sankranti 2025, immerse yourself in the divine celebrations, and may the blessings of Surya Dev bring light, happiness, and prosperity into your life.
