Makar Sankranti 2025, History, Significance, Date

Makar Sankranti 2025 Celebrations

On the day of Makar Sankranti, the sun starts its journey towards northward and transitions into the capricorn zodiac sign, marking the commencement of Uttarayan. Considered to be a significantly auspicious period in hindu tradition, this day is a symbol of prosperity, spiritual awakening and growth. According to Indian traditions, the sun transitioning into a northward movement is marked to bring prosperity and good fortune. While many states celebrate it as the beginning of harvest season, many states celebrate it in a manner that the devotees take dips in the holy rivers as a way of cleansing their souls and starting anew.

Makar Sankranti History 

Makar Sankranti, an auspicious hindu festival is related with the birth of Narashansa, the first preceptor of righteousness in Kaliyuga. Marking the victory of good over evil, the day is celebrated with a belief that Lord Vishnu defeated Lord Sankarasura on Makar Sankranti day. 

The other legendary story associated with Makar Sankranti is from Mahabharata, where Bhishma Pitamah was lying on a bed of arrows and was blessed with a boon to decide his time of death. At that time, Bhishma Pitamah, chose the day of Uttarayan to depart from his physical body. Hence the day is celebrated not only as a harvest festival but also the day of spiritual fulfillment. 

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Makar Sankranti Celebration in States

Makar Sankranti is celebrated all over India, in a different manner. Here are the names of Makar Sankranti festival and how it is celebrated in different states:

Makar Sankranti Astronomical Significance

Astronomically, Makar Sankranti holds great significance as it marks the Sun’s transition into Capricorn, signaling the start of Uttarayan—the six-month northward journey of the Sun. From this day, days become longer and nights shorter, marking the end of the cold winter season.

This alignment of the Sun with Capricorn is also associated with spiritual awakening. It is believed that engaging in religious and spiritual practices during this time is especially fruitful, as the environment is infused with heightened energy and positivity.

Makar Sankranti Cultural Significance

Makar Sankranti is not only a religious festival but also one that brings together the communities and promotes social welfare. Makar Sankranti festival is culturally significant for the following reasons: 

• People take a dip in holy rivers like Ganga, Yamuna as it is believed to clean their souls and shower blessings.
• People offer donations in the form of food, clothes and money to the needy ones. 
• Traditional dishes like khichdi, rice are prepared showcasing the culinary heritage of India. 
• In Gujarat, kites are flown as a symbol of freedom and joy.