A Deep Dive into Tradition, Astronomy, and Cultural Significance
Namaskaram everyone! Welcome to the Bhuwaneswari Foundation’s Utsav Bodh Series. In this series, we explore the deeper meanings, traditions, and beliefs behind various Indian festivals, while addressing some common misconceptions and misunderstandings.
This blog post is an gist of the conversation with our esteemed Acharya, Dr. Srinivas Sharma Garu, a profound scholar and Jyotisha (Vedic astrology) expert.
Dr. Srinivas Sharma Garu is a distinguished scholar deeply rooted in the study and practice of Jyotisha. He is a research scholar at the Siddhanta Knowledge Foundation and has dedicated many years to the exploration of Indian traditions and Vedic knowledge. The essence of the conversation with him that we have captured here today is truly an honor as we delve into the cultural, astronomical, and spiritual significance of Sankranti.
Bharat – A land of festivals
Bharat is renowned as the land of festivals, where every occasion, big or small, is celebrated with enthusiasm and devotion. However, in recent times, deviations from our traditional practices have led to a diminishing understanding of their true significance. Festivals are the cornerstone of our culture, embodying our values and heritage. This series aims to rekindle our connection to these traditions, starting with Makara Sankranti—a festival that marks a significant cosmic event and holds deep cultural relevance.
The word Sankranti means “transition” or “movement.” As explained in the text Kalpa Dhrumah by Dr. Jai Simha, Sankranti refers to the Sun’s movement from one zodiac sign (Rashi) to another. The Sun traverses all 12 zodiac signs over the course of a year, completing one solar cycle, known in Sanskrit as Soura Samvatsara.
The Earth revolves around the Sun, completing one full orbit in approximately 365 days. During this journey, the Sun appears to move through the 12 zodiac signs. Each transition, known as Sankranti, occurs roughly every 30 days. However, among the 12 Sankrantis, Makara Sankranti is uniquely celebrated because it marks a significant celestial event—the Sun’s transition into the Makara Rashi (Capricorn) and the beginning of its northward journey (Uttarayana).
Relavance of Makara Sankranti
Makara Sankranti is linked to the Earth’s axial tilt of 23.5°, which creates two key periods: Uttarayana, the northward movement of the Sun, signifies longer days and increasing warmth, symbolizing growth and renewal. Dakshinayana, the southward movement of the Sun, is a period of shorter days, reflection, and introspection. Makara Sankranti marks the Sun’s transition into Uttarayana, a time celebrated for its Punya Kala (auspicious time) that is ideal for spiritual growth, rituals, and new beginnings.
Important four Sankrantis of the year
While all 12 Sankrantis hold significance, four are particularly important: Mesha Sankranti (Aries), Tula Sankranti (Libra), Makara Sankranti (Capricorn), and Kataka Sankranti (Cancer). These transitions are linked to agricultural cycles, weather changes, and rituals that honor the harmony between nature and human life.
Makara Sankranti also celebrates the agricultural cycle. It is a time when farmers reap their harvest and express gratitude to Surya Deva (the Sun God) and nature for their bounty. This festival reinforces the interconnectedness of human life, nature, and cosmic events.
Sankranti across various regions
Sankranti is celebrated uniquely across various regions of India. In Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, people fly kites, light Bhogi Mantalu (traditional bonfires), and prepare traditional dishes like Ariselu and Sakkarai Pongal. In Tamil Nadu, Pongal involves cooking rice with jaggery and milk, offering it to the Sun God, and celebrating the harvest with family and community. In Punjab, Lohri is marked by lighting bonfires, singing folk songs, and sharing traditional foods like Gajak and Rewari. In Assam, Bhogali Bihu involves community feasts, dances, and lighting traditional fires. Across all regions, common practices include waking up early, offering prayers, preparing Rangoli (Muggu), and sharing Tilgul Laddoos to symbolize goodwill and harmony.
Tilgul Laddoos, made from sesame seeds and jaggery, are not just a sweet treat but also symbolic of life’s balance—combining the bitter (til) and sweet (gul) aspects. These sweets also provide warmth and energy, aligning with Ayurvedic principles for winter nutrition.
Creating Rangoli during Sankranti is a tradition that symbolizes prosperity and harmony. Traditionally made with rice powder, it serves as an offering to small creatures, reflecting the principle of coexisting with nature.
Concluding notes
Makara Sankranti beautifully intertwines astronomy, agriculture, and cultural traditions. It reminds us to honor nature, express gratitude, and embrace unity through diverse regional practices. Celebrating Sankranti with family and community not only preserves traditions but also reinforces bonds of love and togetherness.
Thank you for sticking throughout the end of this write up!
Stay tuned for more insights into India’s vibrant festivals in our Utsav Bodh Series.
Hari Om!
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