In just a few days, we will bid adieu to the bone-chilling days of winter and usher in the promise of warmer days, as India gears up for one of its grandest festivals - Makar Sankranti. Astrologically, Makar Sankranti marks the Sun's transition into Capricorn, known as 'Makar' in Sanskrit, signalling the arrival of longer days filled with abundant sunshine, crucial for flourishing crops. Given India's agrarian roots, this harvest festival holds immense significance and is celebrated across the nation with diverse local traditions. The festival represents the end of winter and the start of the harvest season.
Makar Sankranti 2024: Date and Timings
This year, the festival will fall on January 15, 2024.
Makara Sankranti on Monday, January 15, 2024
Makara Sankranti Punya Kala - 07:15 AM to 05:46 PM, Duration - 10 Hours 31 Mins
Makara Sankranti Maha Punya Kala - 07:15 AM to 09:00 AM, Duration - 01 Hour 45 Mins
Makara Sankranti Moment - 02:54 AM
(Source: drikpanchang.com)
Makar Sankranti 2024: Significance and Rituals:
Also known as Maghi, Poush Sankranti, or Sankranthi in different regions, Makar Sankranti takes on unique regional flavours. In Punjab, it transforms into Lohri; in Assam, it is referred to as Magh Bihu. Tamil Nadu observes it as Pongal, and Karnataka dubs it Ugaadi. Makar Sankranti falls in the solar month of Makara and the lunar month of Magha, earning the festival names like Magha Sankranti or Makar Sankranti. The transition from winter to a warmer season marks a time of rejoicing, symbolizing the abundance and prosperity that the harvest season promises.
The celebration of Makar Sankranti varies across India, with each region adding its unique customs and rituals. Early morning rituals involve taking a dip in the Holy Ganges and offering prayers to the Sun God. Homes are cleaned and adorned to invite prosperity. Kite flying is a common practice during the festival. Food, as in any Indian festival, is an important part of celebrations during Makar Sankranti. Now, let's find out some of the most popular culinary delights that make Makar Sankranti a gastronomic extravaganza:
Food is an important part of Makar Sankranti celebrations.
Photo Credit: iStock
Here are 5 Traditional Recipes for Makar Sankranti 2024 Celebrations:
1. Til Ladoo:
A quintessential Sankranti delight, Til Ladoo comprises bite-sized balls with warming sesame seeds and jaggery. These sweet treats hold a special place in Maharashtrian celebrations, encouraging the exchange of til ladoos while wishing well. Click here for the recipe for til ladoo.
2. Puran Poli:
Hailing from Maharashtra, Puran Poli is a sweet flatbread filled with a delightful mixture of sweet and crumbly moong. This breakfast dish is a favourite not only during Makar Sankranti but also during Diwali celebrations. Click here for the recipe for puran poli.
3. Makara Chaula:
A delectable concoction of freshly harvested rice, jaggery, milk, chhena, banana, and sugarcane, Makara Chaula is a staple in every Odia household during Sankranti. After being offered to the Gods, this mixture is joyously distributed to all.
4. Pinni:
From the heart of Punjab comes Pinni - a winter indulgence crafted from ghee, wheat flour, jaggery, and almonds. Prepared during Lohri and Sankranti, this bite-sized sweetmeat is believed to protect against winter-related ailments. Click here for the recipe for pinni.
5. Peanut Chikki:
No Makar Sankranti celebration is complete without the mouthwatering peanut and jaggery brittle. Besides being a delicious treat, these chunky delights also contribute to keeping the body warm in the winter chill. Click here for the recipe for peanut chikki.
In essence, Makar Sankranti is a celebration of the bountiful harvest and of India's diverse traditions. Happy Makar Sankranti 2024!