Every January, the vibrant festival of Makar Sankranti sweeps across India, marking the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn and symbolising the promise of longer days and the end of winter. This cherished occasion unites the nation in celebration, embracing diverse cultural traditions that embody the spirit of gratitude, joy, and community bonding. From kite-flying in Gujarat to the Lohri bonfires of Punjab and the elaborate Pongal festivities in Tamil Nadu, the Makar Sankranti celebration encapsulates the rich tapestry of Indian heritage and customs.
Delve deeper into the colorful tapestry of traditions and celebrations that define Makar Sankranti by exploring how this festival unfolds across the various states of India and why it holds such a special place in the hearts of millions.
Makar Sankranti Date 2025
- 14 January 2025 (Tuesday) – Makar Sankranti
About Makar Sankranti Festival
Makar Sankranti is steeped in Indian culture, representing the Sun’s journey into Capricorn and the dawn of the harvest season. It heralds a new beginning, a time of harvest, prosperity, and thanksgiving for the farmers across the country. The festival pays homage to the Sun, revered as a life-nurturing deity, with people expressing gratitude for abundant crops and seeking continued blessings. Makar Sankranti fosters a sense of togetherness and community, with families and friends coming together to partake in regional customs like kite-flying, bonfires, traditional dances, and feasts, showcasing unity, gratitude, and cultural richness.
List of Sankranti Dates in 2025
- 14 January 2025 (Tuesday) – Makar Sankranti/Pongal
- 12 February 2025 (Wednesday) – Kumbha Sankranti
- 14 March 2025 (Friday) – Meena Sankranti
- and more…
Celebrations of Makar Sankranti in India
Makar Sankranti comes alive in various hues across different states of India, each region adding its own unique cultural flair to the festivities. Here’s a glimpse of how different states celebrate this vibrant occasion:
- Tamil Nadu: Celebrated as Pongal over four days.
- Andhra Pradesh: A four-day festival with rituals and community activities.
- Punjab: Lohri celebrations on the eve of Makar Sankranti with bonfires and traditional dances.
- Madhya Pradesh: Exchange of sweets and programs to foster community spirit.
- Odisha: Custom of lighting bonfires and communal eating to mark the day.
- Assam: Bhogali Bihu festivities with feasts, games, and bonfires.
- West Bengal: A three-day celebration with holy dips and special sweets.
- Delhi: Known as Sukarat with kite-flying and community gatherings.
- Gujarat: Uttarayan festival characterized by vibrant kite-flying traditions.
- Maharashtra: Exchange of sesame seed and jaggery sweets symbolizing unity and warmth.
Significance of Kite Flying During Makar Sankranti
Kite-flying is a hallmark tradition of Makar Sankranti, particularly in states like Gujarat and Rajasthan. This activity symbolizes joy, freedom, and the anticipation of longer days ahead. It serves as a gesture of gratitude towards Surya, the Sun god, for abundant harvests and blessings. The colorful kites soaring in the sky signify India’s cultural diversity and unity, while also fostering community bonding and social interactions. The tradition of kite-flying beautifully encapsulates the essence of Makar Sankranti, blending fun, spirituality, and cultural heritage seamlessly.
Makar Sankranti Holidays 2026-2030
- 14 January 2026 (Wednesday) – Makar Sankranti
- 15 January 2027 (Friday) – Makar Sankranti
- 15 January 2028 (Saturday) – Makar Sankranti
- 14 January 2029 (Sunday) – Makar Sankranti
- 14 January 2030 (Monday) – Makar Sankranti
FAQs
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What is Makar Sankranti, and why is it celebrated?
- Makar Sankranti is a Hindu festival marking the transition of the Sun into Capricorn, signifying the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer days. It celebrates the harvest season and is a time for gratitude, joy, and community bonding.
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When is Makar Sankranti celebrated in 2025?
- Makar Sankranti will be celebrated on 14 January 2025, which falls on a Tuesday.
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How is Makar Sankranti celebrated in different states of India?
- Makar Sankranti is celebrated with unique customs across various states in India, each adding its own regional touch to the festivities.
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What is the significance of kite flying during Makar Sankranti?
- Kite flying symbolizes joy, freedom, and the welcoming of longer days during Makar Sankranti, fostering social interaction and community bonding.
- What are some traditional foods prepared during Makar Sankranti?
- Traditional foods like Tilgul Ladoo, Pongal, Patishapta, and Khichdi are prepared during Makar Sankranti, each holding significance in different regions of India.
As Makar Sankranti approaches each year, the essence of this festival lies in its celebration of unity, gratitude, and cultural diversity, weaving a tapestry of traditions that bind the nation together in joy and harmony. Let us revel in the vibrancy of this festival and embrace the spirit of Makar Sankranti with open hearts and open skies.
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