Makar Sankranti: Meaning, Traditions, and Why This Festival Matters
By KraftsLane – Handcrafted Festive Décor & Gifting Essentials
Makar Sankranti is one of the most auspicious Hindu festivals because it marks a powerful cosmic shift—the Sun’s transition into Capricorn (Makara Rashi). This movement begins Uttarayan, the Sun’s northward journey, which is considered a period of light, prosperity, and positive energy.
This year feels even more special because Ekadashi aligns with this day across many countries.
🌞 Mythological Events Associated With Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti is not only an astronomical event—it is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. Several important stories are connected to this day.
1. Surya Dev Visits His Son Shani Dev
According to Hindu mythology, Surya (the Sun God) visits his son Shani (the ruler of Capricorn) on this day.
Since Makar Sankranti marks the Sun’s entry into Makara (Capricorn), it symbolizes harmony between father and son.
This is why the day is considered highly auspicious.
2. The Beginning of Uttarayan — The Day of the Gods
Mythologically, Uttarayan (the Sun’s northward journey) is believed to be the period when Devas (gods) awaken and positive cosmic energy increases.
The Mahabharata mentions that Bhishma Pitamah waited for Uttarayan to leave his body, as it is believed that souls departing during this period attain liberation (moksha).
3. Lord Vishnu’s Victory Over Evil
Another legend says that on Makar Sankranti, Lord Vishnu ended the terror of the Asuras by defeating them and burying their heads under the Mandara mountain.
This symbolizes the end of negativity and the triumph of dharma.
4. Goddess Sankranti Defeats the Demon Sankarasur
Some Puranic stories mention that Goddess Sankranti killed the demon Sankarasur on this day.
This is why the day is named Sankranti—a celebration of divine victory.
5. The Ganga Descends to Earth (Associated Ritual)
Many devotees take a holy dip because it is believed that on this day, Ganga followed Bhagiratha to the ocean, sanctifying the waters.
This is why Ganga Sagar Mela is held on Makar Sankranti every year.
6. Sun God Worshipped for Prosperity
Across scriptures, Makar Sankranti is seen as the day when Surya Dev’s blessings are strongest, bringing:
- good health
- prosperity
- abundance
- spiritual purification
This aligns with the festival’s focus on light, warmth, and new beginnings.
🌾Across India, this day symbolizes:
🌅 1. The End of Winter & Beginning of Longer Days
The festival marks the end of the Sun’s southward movement (Dakshinayan) and the start of longer, brighter days—seen as a time of renewal and hope.
🌾 2. A Harvest Festival
It celebrates the new harvest season, honoring farmers, crops, and abundance. Communities thank nature for prosperity and pray for a fruitful year ahead.
🕉️ 3. A Deeply Spiritual Day
People take holy dips in sacred rivers like the Ganga, believing it purifies the soul and brings spiritual merit. Acts of charity—food, grains, blankets—are considered especially auspicious.
🍯 4. Symbolism of Til & Gud (Sesame & Jaggery)
Til (sesame) represents purity and warmth, while gud (jaggery) symbolizes sweetness and goodwill. Eating and sharing them signifies letting go of bitterness and embracing harmony.
🪁 5. A Celebration of Joy & Community
From Gujarat’s kite-flying to Tamil Nadu’s Pongal, Assam’s Bihu, and Punjab’s Lohri, the festival unites India in diverse, colorful traditions.
✨ 6. A Time of New Beginnings
Because the Sun enters a new zodiac sign, the day is associated with fresh starts, prosperity, and positive transformation.
❤️ Celebrate Sankranti with KraftsLane's Handcrafted Warmth
From our Michigan studio to homes across the USA, every KraftsLane piece is created with care, cultural pride, and a love for festive traditions.
🌞 Festive Torans for a Joyful Welcome
Our handcrafted Torans instantly elevate your entrance or mantel. Their vibrant colors and clean detailing pair perfectly with Sankranti rangoli and diya setups, creating a warm, inviting first impression for guests.
🪔 Shubh Labh Sets for Auspicious Beginnings
Sankranti is all about positivity and fresh energy. Our Shubh Labh sets add that auspicious touch to your home—minimal, elegant, and easy to style with your existing décor.
Use them with:
✨ Premium Gifting Boxes & Envelopes
Sankranti is a festival of sharing sweetness. Our handcrafted boxes and envelopes add a thoughtful, premium touch to your til‑gul hampers, cash gifts, or small tokens of love.
Ideal for:
- Til‑gul gifting
- Cash envelopes
- Small festive favors
Whether you’re decorating your home or preparing thoughtful gifts, our handcrafted décor brings meaning and beauty to your celebration.
