Makar Sankranti, also known as Uttarayan, signifies the Sun’s movement into the zodiac sign Capricorn (Makara). Celebrated across India, it represents the end of long, cold nights and the start of sunnier days. This vibrant festival highlights not only the cultural importance but also the spirit of thanksgiving and celebration of the harvest season. With this it is also marked by acts of donation and charity.
In southern India, it coincides with Pongal, a multi-day festival where people prepare traditional dishes like Pongal (a sweet rice dish) and decorate their homes with colorful rangoli (art made from colored powders). Families gather to express gratitude for the harvest, perform rituals, and enjoy festive meals together. The joyous spirit of Makar Sankranti and Pongal fosters community bonding and reflects the values of gratitude, abundance, and new beginnings.
Makar Sankranti Auspicious Date and Time
It will be observed on Tuesday, January 14th, 2025. This day is especially lucky for offering prayers and doing charitable work during the Punya Kaal and Maha Punya Kaal times.
- Punya Kaal Muhurat: 09:03 AM to 06:07 PM
(Duration: 9 hours and 4 minutes) - Maha Punya Kaal Muhurat: 09:03 AM to 10:51 AM
Importance of Makar Sankranti 2025
The importance of Uttarayan goes beyond just the Sun’s movement into Capricorn. It marks the start of longer days and warmer weather after winter. For farmers, it’s the beginning of the harvest season and a time to be thankful for nature’s gifts. Families celebrate by flying kites and making sweets with sesame seeds (til) and jaggery (gur), which are believed to bring health and well-being.
In Hindu belief, Makar Sankranti also encourages self-reflection and positive change. As the Sun starts its journey northward (Uttarayan), it’s seen as a time of new beginnings, prosperity, and positive energy. The festival is a reminder to lead a life filled with generosity and goodness.
Many people also take part in religious rituals, like offering prayers to the Sun God and taking dips in sacred rivers, to wash away past sins and purify the soul.
Donation on Makar Sankranti 2025
Charity, or Dāna, is a key part of Makar Sankranti. On this day, people make winter seva such as donations of food, clothes, and money to those in need. Acts of charity are believed to bring good fortune and blessings. Commonly donated items include sesame seeds (til), jaggery (gur), grains, and blankets.
Organizations like Narayan Seva Sansthan focus on the importance of giving during Makar Sankranti, supporting the underprivileged. By making Makar Sankranti 2025 donations, people not only help others but also receive spiritual blessings.
FAQs
Q1: What is the Auspicious Muhurat for Makar Sankranti 2025?
The Punya Kaal Muhurat is from 09:03 AM to 06:07 PM, and the Maha Punya Kaal Muhurat is from 09:03 AM to 10:51 AM.
Q2: What is the importance of Makar Sankranti 2025?
It marks the beginning of longer days, the harvest season, and a time for self-reflection, charity, and new beginnings.
Q3: Why is donation important on Makar Sankranti 2025?
Giving on this day brings blessings, good fortune, and spiritual benefits to the giver.
Q4: What happens on Makar Sankranti to the Sun?
On Makar Sankranti, the Sun moves into Capricorn, marking the end of winter and the start of longer, warmer days.
Q5: How to celebrate Makar Sankranti at home?
You can celebrate by flying kites, making sweets like tilgul, praying to the Sun, and making Makar Sankranti 2025 donations to those in need.
Q6: How to offer water to the Sun during Makar Sankranti?
To offer water to the Sun, fill a copper or brass vessel with clean water, add red flowers, rice, and kumkum, then stand facing the Sun and pour the water slowly while reciting prayers or mantras.
