In most of India and even Nepal every year 14 January (with some exceptions on 15 January) is celebrated as Makar Sankranti. It is the harvest festival that marks the transition of the Sun into Makara or Capricorn zodiac sign. This fabulous day marks the arrival of spring in India. According to Puranas (Hindu Scriptures), it is the day when Sun god visits the house of Shani (his son and the swami of Makar Rashi). This day is celebrated as the symbol of a healthy relationship between the son and the father. It is a reminder to the children that it is their responsibility to continue the family forward and dreams of a father. In addition, this day represents the beginning of righteous era and end of negativities. In North India, it is believed that on Makar Sankranti the direction of the wind changes and so it is celebrated as a kite-flying festival. Another significance is that unlike other Hindu festivals that follow the moon calendar, it is the only festival that follows the movement of the Sun. It is also known as Uttarayan and is symbolic of discarding everything bad that has happened in the previous season and marks the beginning of a fresh season filled with hopes, new possibilities and love.
And, yes how can we forget the importance of food in any Indian festival? In Gujarat Undhiyu is the speciality of this day that is prepared with local seasonal vegetables, roots and several beans. Other dishes prepared and relished on Sankarnti in other parts of Northern India are Rewari, Pheni, Gajak, pakaudi, sesame ladoos and dal bati churma.
In many parts of India, this particular day starts with visiting temples, donating food and clothes to needy and feeding cows with hay and a pigeon with grains.
On this joyful day, people give visits to each other and wish them blessings.
If you cannot give a visit your family or friends, send Makar Sankranti images to them.
Browse below to find the best Makar Sankranti images and pick up the one that is your favourite.
