It is the time when the sun paints our skies with hues of gold, its rays breaking free of the winter sky that had loomed before. A time where harvest-ready crops dance along the warm breeze as they watch the sun move northward. A time where Mother Nature joins the festivity–that is Makar Sankranti.
Sankranti marks the end of winter solstice with the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of Makara and the journey of the sun moves northwards from this day till mid-July. It is evident that our country is culturally united by the celebration of Makar Sankranti - Pongal in Tamil Nadu, Lohri in Punjab, Bhogali Bihu in Assam, and Makar Sankranti in many other states.
Along with the difference in regional names, the celebration also takes various forms across the nation with different festivities– Jallikattu in Tamilnadu, a devoutly Makaravilakku in Kerala, Kite-flying in Gujarat, deity processions in various states; that is the beauty of our civilisation!
Makar Sankranti serves as a reminder of our deep connection to the nature and other life forms around us. Everything is connected. Realising the connection and the beauty of seeing divinity in it stands as a testimony to the knowledge that has been passed down through multiple generations by our ancestors. It highlights the interdependence of our lives to the world around us, teaching the importance of respecting nature.
With Lord Surya seen as “Prana” - the symbol of life and energy, on this auspicious day, our prayers to him serve as the ultimate representation for our love, devotion and gratitude. After all, life as we know it is impossible without our local star.
Moreover, during this period, Earth's axis is tilted at an angle of approximately 23 degrees relative to its orbital plane, an imaginary line that the Earth follows during it’s one year orbit around the sun. This tilt is responsible for the season change, ultimately giving birth to conditions favourable for agriculture.
Overall, Sankranti is not just a religious festival but a celebration of cultural unity and understanding the cognitive way of living leading to harmony and peace.
Showing gratitude toward every life form around us, we find ourselves embracing a spiritual perspective. The appreciation we have for our surroundings has the power to uplift our spirits, fostering love and compassion for others.
At Purna Vidya center, Coimbatore, celebrations included prayers to Lord Surya, chanting of Aditya Hridyam and preparing Pongal and offering to Lord Surya, whose blessings help overcome obstacles, propelling us to move forward in life.
Let us collectively wish everyone a fantastic 2024—a year that embodies hope and prosperity.
