Makara Sankranti: The Festival of Harvest
Every year, the end of January observes the winter solstice and the start of longer days. Since time immemorial, this occasion has been celebrated in India and Nepal as the festival of harvest or Makar Sankranti. Also known as Maghi, this festival day is dedicated to worshiping the sun. Unlike most festivals that follow the lunar cycle, Makar Sankranti follows the solar cycle and thus, is celebrated almost on the same day every year. Marking the sun’s transit into the Makara Rashi or Capricorn sign, Makar Sankranti 2021 will be celebrated on the 14th of January.
Makara Sankranti in Karnataka
With the state gearing up for the festivities, “Ellu Bella thindu Olle mathaadi” is the Kannada saying will make its rounds. This saying means “eat the mixture of sesame seeds and jaggery and speak good words”. This saying follows a very important tradition called ‘Ellu Birodhu’. Women and children go door-to-door, exchanging plates containing a piece of sugarcane, a mixture of sesame seeds and jaggery and candy made out of caramelized sugar. This tradition symbolizes the virtues of sharing and spreading happiness. People also clean their houses, tie mango leaves to the entrances of their homes, wear new clothes and pray to God. The prayers are not only offered at home but also in temples.
Other Activities during Makara Sankranti
The social festivities associated with Makar Sankranti are colorful decorations, singing and dancing, kite flying, bonfires, rangoli making and sometimes even kusti (wrestling). Another age-old ritual in Karnataka is where people adorn their cattle with vibrant costumes and jewels and make them jump across a big pit of fire. This showcase of cattle is locally known as ‘Kicchu Haisodu’. These activities create an atmosphere of cheer and merry-making.
Delicacies of Makara Sankranti
No Indian festival is complete without special delicacies, such as Makar Sankranti. Pongal, a rice dish mixed with boiled milk and sugar, is a treat prepared by all during this festival. Other festive dishes include lemon and tamarind rice, vadas, vegetable gravies and Payasa (a sweet rice pudding).
‘To be grateful for the land on which our food grows and to unite and rejoice’ is the essence of Makar Sankranti. This festival brings forth generosity, harmony, gratitude and love among people.
Courtesy:More about Karnataka
