Makara Sankranti

Sankranti also called Makar Sankranti celebrates the entry of the Sun into Makar Rasi (Capricorn). From this day onward, the sun begins its ascent and enters the Northern Hemisphere.

This movement of the sun denotes the end of winter, and more significantly – the beginning of Uttarayana, and the commencement of an auspicious phase in the Hindu almanac. The day itself is considered very fortuitous.

In the month preceding Sankranti, the Hindu month of Dhanurmasam, women draw beautiful rangolis and put the ‘gobbemmalu’ between them. Gobbemmalu are the balls made of cow dung which are decorated with turmeric powder (pasupu), red vermion powder (Kumkuma), flowers and with different types of grains. Women sing traditional songs and dance around these rangolis. These gobbemmalu are then dried and used as fuel. Bhogi, the last day of Dakshinayana is celebrated with the traditional Bhogi or bonfire, lit early in the morning. Along with wood, dried cow dung cakes are consigned to flames. It signifies the end a phase and the beginning or fresh start to a new chapter.

During Makara Sankranti idea of putting up koluvu is symbolically associated with ushering in the Uttarayanam with all the gods and goddesses assembled in the house, in a manner of ensuing their blessings and protection for the whole year.

Makara Sankranti is also a time for forgiveness and reconciliation, as it is believed that any negative actions or thoughts during this time can have long-lasting effects. Some people fast or perform other acts of self-denial as a way of purifying their bodies and minds, and seeking closer connection with the divine.

Overall, Sankranti is seen as a time to celebrate the power of the divine, to seek spiritual growth and renewal, and to cultivate positive qualities such as compassion, kindness, and forgiveness. It is a time to focus on the spiritual aspects of life and to connect with the divine in a meaningful way.