Makar Sankranti is one of those festivals that is observed every year on the same day in India according to the Gregorian calendar. Makar Sankranti's date never changes, unlike other Indian holidays. In the Gregorian schedule, Sakranti positions first in the list of festivals as it falls in January and is significant due to an assortment of reasons.

History of Makar Sankranti

The festival is named on the deity Sankranti. According to Hindu legend, Sankranti killed a demon named Sankarasur. The day following Makar Sankranti is called Karidin, which is also known as Kinkrant. Moreover, the sun is a significant aspect of Makar Sankranti too. During the festival time, it begins to move towards the North. This period, known as Uttarayana or Winter Solstice, is considered to be auspicious according to Hindu faith. The epic of Mahabharata also states that Bhishma, the supreme commander of the Kaurava forces, had awaited the Uttarayana period to embrace his death.  

Story of Makar Sankranti

There is a mythological story of Shani Dev and Surya Dev associated with Makar Sankranti. According to beliefs, Shani Dev's relationship with father Surya Dev was not good. Shani Dev and Surya Dev do not get along with each other. It is told in Devi Purana that when Surya Dev went to meet his son Shani Dev for the first time, then Shani Dev presented black sesame (till) to him. Surya dev was very pleased with this. Surya blessed Shani that when he would come in Capricorn,  the house of the person will filled with wealth.

Time and Rituals

Makar Sankranti is on Thursday, January 14 - Magh Krishna Paksha Dwitiya tithi
Makar Sankranti Punya Kala or favourable time begins at 8:30 AM and finishes at 5:46 PM
Makar Sankranti Maha Punya Kala begins at 8:30 AM and ends at 10:15 AM
On the day of Makar Sankranti, nothing should be eaten or drunk before the bath. Donating sesame seeds on the day of Makar Sankranti is very auspicious. Donating black sesame considered important.

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