Significance of Makar Sankranti: A Festival of New Beginnings
Understanding Makar Sankranti
In Hindu tradition, Makar Sankranti is regarded as a highly sacred and auspicious festival. Celebrated annually during the month of Paush, it marks the transition of the sun from Sagittarius to Capricorn. Astrologically, this signifies the commencement of the sun's northward journey, known as Uttarayana, which symbolizes positive energy, auspicious actions, and fresh starts.
Religious and Astrological Importance
Makar Sankranti is imbued with profound religious and astrological significance. It is a day dedicated to honoring the Sun God and engaging in self-purification. Devotees believe that worshipping Surya Narayan and Lord Vishnu on this day brings health, happiness, prosperity, and good fortune.
Insights from an Astrologer
Astrological Predictions
According to the esteemed astrologer Pandit Nandkishore Mudgal from Deoghar, Makar Sankranti will be observed on January 14th this year. He emphasizes that this day is not only ideal for accruing merit but is also particularly beneficial for honoring ancestors and alleviating ancestral curses (Pitru Dosha). The Sun God’s entry into Capricorn, governed by Saturn, creates a favorable alignment for breaking ancestral curses.
Rituals for Ancestors
On this auspicious day, taking a dip in the Ganges or any sacred river in the morning and offering three handfuls of water (tarpan) with black sesame seeds and white flowers while reciting the names of ancestors is believed to please them. This act is said to liberate individuals from ancestral curses and foster peace within families.
A Special Conjunction
Astrological Conjunctions
The astrologer notes that this year, a particularly favorable conjunction is occurring on Makar Sankranti. This day coincides with Ekadashi, and auspicious yogas such as Sarvartha Siddhi Yoga and Amrit Siddhi Yoga are also present, enhancing its significance.
Charity and Ancestral Curses
Charitable Acts
Makar Sankranti, also known as 'Til Sankranti', is associated with sesame seeds, which are believed to have originated from Lord Vishnu's body. Thus, they hold special religious importance. Donating black sesame seeds and jaggery on this day is considered highly auspicious. Providing sesame seed ladoos, raw sesame seeds, or other sesame-based items to the needy or Brahmins is thought to mitigate negative influences and remove life’s obstacles.
The Essence of Makar Sankranti
The festival of Makar Sankranti embodies the spirit of infusing new energy, hope, and positive transformations into life through sun worship, charitable acts, and offerings to ancestors. This is why it is celebrated as a symbol of faith, belief, and well-being in Sanatana Dharma (Hinduism).
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