Makar Sankranti is one of the most auspicious festivals of India. This is also regarded as the beginning of an auspicious phase which marks the end of winter season and the commencement of a new harvest season. Makar Sankranti is celebrated on 14th or 15th January every year. This year, we are celebrating it on 15th January.
On this day, all the members of family irrespective of the age, bond together and enjoy the reaping festival by flying kites also it is said that Sun passes from one Zodiac sign to another. A sankranti or sankramana marks the beginning of every solar month in the Vedic calendrical system when Sun passes from one sign to the other. But, being solar based the change of January 14th or 15th of every year is considered more sacred than any other month, as it is the beginning of Uttarayana Punyakaala. This period is also considered an auspicious time and the veteran Bhishma of Mahabharata chose to die during this period. Bhishma fell to the arrows of Arjuna. With his boon to choose the time of his death, he waited on a bed of arrows to depart from this world only during this period. Sri Bhishma Pitamaha waited on the bed of arrows till the “uttaraayaNa punyakaalam” has arrived, and then breathed once more, for the last time. It is believed that one escapes the cycle of repeated birth and death, if one gives up one’s body on this day.
Another legend that is associated with this festival is, Lord Krishna demolished the terror of Ashuras by burying their heads under the Mandara Parvata. This auspicious day symbolizes the end of evil power and the beginning of a peaceful era. On this day, devotees prepare a dish made of green grams, rice and jaggery representing Lord Narayana, Laxmi and Their Divine love. The festival reminds us that we need to establish that divine love within ourselves and give a direction to this mind and fix it in our Lord Narayana, who brings light in our lives.
Makar Sankranti is an occasion to express our gratitude to the Supreme Lord for blessing us with all the necessary supplies like rain to produce a bountiful harvest. Everyone should chant Hare Krishna mahamantra to this holy name of the Supreme Personality of Godhead and understand the true meaning of every festival and celebrate it and be happy always.
Makar Sankranti is celebrated in almost all parts of India with different names, traditions and rituals. And we at Iskcon Noida also celebrate this festival with chanting holy name of the Lord Krishna, by doing kirtanam and distributing Khichdi Prasadam. Be a part of it by donating on this most auspicious day and join us to seek blessings from Radha Govind. Hare Krishna.
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