Nagpur: Makar Sankranti, an auspicious Hindu festival marking the Sun’s transition into Capricorn, will be celebrated across India on Tuesday, January 14, 2025. The festival signifies the end of winter and the beginning of longer days, symbolizing renewal and abundance.
History and Mythology
Rooted in Hindu mythology, Makar Sankranti is linked to the divine figure Sankranti, who defeated the demon Sankarasur. The day following Makar Sankranti, known as Karidin or Kinkrant, also holds significance in the spiritual calendar.
Auspicious Timings for 2025
As per Drik Panchang, the auspicious timings for Makar Sankranti this year are:
- Main Auspicious Period: 9:03 AM to 5:46 PM
- Best Time for Bathing and Donations: 9:03 AM to 10:48 AM
Celebrations and Practices
Makar Sankranti celebrates the harvesting season with regional variations. Vibrant kite-flying competitions, communal bonfires, and traditional delicacies like sesame sweets and jaggery dishes highlight the day.
In addition to festivities, the festival encourages spiritual practices. Bathing in holy rivers, such as the Ganga and Yamuna, is believed to purify the soul, while acts of charity promote the accumulation of good karma.
Significance Across India
From Gujarat’s kite festivals to Tamil Nadu’s Pongal celebrations, the festival is observed with immense fervor across the country. It symbolizes gratitude for nature’s bounty and the spirit of renewal.
Makar Sankranti 2025 promises to bring communities together in celebration of harvest, spirituality, and the transition into a season of light and abundance.