Sankranti 2023: Soaring High with the Sacred Kites of Renewal
Celebrate Sankranti 2023 with joy and spirituality. Explore the significance, rituals, and traditions of this auspicious Hindu festival. Join now!
As we bid farewell to the year 2022, it is with great anticipation that we look forward to Sankranti - one of the most auspicious and widely celebrated Hindu festivals across India. Scheduled to be observed on January 14th, 2023, Sankranti marks the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makara) and the beginning of the gradual increase of daylight hours. This glorious day is particularly significant in Hinduism, as it is believed to be the time when the gates to heaven are opened, and our ancestors' souls are able to attain salvation.
Sankranti, also known as Makar Sankranti or Maghi, is marked by a multitude of traditions and customs, which vary from state to state but are deeply rooted in the shared belief in the power of new beginnings and the significance of the Sun in our lives. One of the most popular rituals observed during this festival is the preparation and sharing of sweets made from sesame seeds and jaggery. The exchange of these delicacies, called 'til-gul' in Maharashtra and 'Ellu Bella' in Karnataka, signifies harmony and the shedding of past animosities to forge stronger bonds of friendship.
Beyond the sharing of sweets, Sankranti is also a celebration of the harvest season. In states like Punjab and Haryana, the festival is celebrated as Lohri, with bonfires and lively folk songs dedicated to the harvest. In the southern states of India, where the festival is known as Pongal, a dish made of newly harvested rice, jaggery, and milk is prepared to express gratitude to the Sun God, Surya, for a bountiful harvest. The festival of Sankranti is also a time when people come together to perform acts of charity and to help those in need, as it is believed that such acts of generosity lead to greater spiritual growth.
While the customs and rituals may vary, the essence of Sankranti remains the same across the country: a time for new beginnings, gratitude, and unity. As we prepare to welcome Sankranti 2023, let us embrace the spirit of this auspicious occasion and strive to embody its values in our everyday lives, fostering stronger bonds with those around us and working together to create a brighter and more prosperous future for all.