“Til-gul ghyaa, aani goad-goad bolaa”
Accept this til-gul (sweet) and utter sweet words
On the day of Makar Sankranti, we exchange Til (sesame seeds) and Gul (jaggery), let go of negative emotions from the past, and embark on a journey that is sweeter. The day represents individuals coming together in harmony and happiness despite their individual differences.
Makar Sankranti announces the end of the winter season and people come to worship God to express thankfulness for bringing the spring season, which provides welcome respite from the freezing winter temperatures. As the inauspicious preceding months have passed, any auspicious and sacred rituals can commence from this day.
Scientific Background of Makar Sankranti
Scientifically, this day marks the beginning of warmer and longer days compared to the nights. In other words, Sankranti marks the end of the winter season and the beginning of a new harvest in the spring season.
Makar Sankranti is a celestial event in which the Sun begins its northward journey or Uttarayan journey and enters Makar Rashi (the Zodiac sign of Capricorn) after the Tropic of Cancer. Thus this festival is also known as Uttarayan. On this day, Lord Surya, the Sun God, is worshipped as the great benefactor. This January event commemorates the rebirth of solar energy, light, and heat. It is also harvest season for farmers in India.
The practice of flying kites on Makar Sankranti is also supported by scientific evidence, as it exposes us to sunlight after the winter’s darker and short days. While flying kites, our bodies absorb solar energy, which is essential for life.
The Legend of Makar Sankranti
According to Hindu mythical Scriptures, Lord Surya meets His son Lord Shani, who is also the ruling planet of the Sun sign Capricorn on the auspicious day through its solar movement (Sankranti). According to the legend, their relationship was strained due to several differences. Lord Surya’s visit to His Son represents a celebration of the healthy connection, despite the differences. As a result, it is also thought that this is the day people come together to heal their mutual issues and share happiness.
Makar Sankranti stands as an epitome of new beginning, divine radiance and all-auspiciousness. Starting a new venture on this day is highly auspicious. It is the day when all of the negative elements in the cosmos are overpowered by the Divine elements (sattvic tattvas). Therefore one can take advantage of this great moment and invite positivity into their personal as well as professional life.
