Makar Sankranti 2024, a festival celebrated in the auspicious alignment of Raviyoga, is set to be observed on January 15th this year. On this day, devotees engage in the sacred ritual of bathing in the Ganges, offering prayers to Lord Surya, and participating in acts of charity and virtue. They extend their heartfelt wishes for the well-being of themselves, their families, and society as a whole.
Celestial Transition: Sun into Capricorn and the End of Kharmas
The transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makar Rashi) at 8:42 AM marks the end of the inauspicious period known as Kharmas. Following this celestial event, auspicious activities and ceremonies, known as Manglik Karya, commence.
Astrological Insights: Makar Sankranti Dates in Coming Years
Astrologers predict that Makar Sankranti 2024 will be observed on January 14th in the years 2025 and 2026, while in 2027 and 2028, it will fall on January 15th.
Rituals and Traditions: Ganga Snan and Surya Puja
On this significant day, devotees perform the ritualistic Ganga snan (bath in the Ganges) and worship Lord Surya, seeking blessings for health, prosperity, and overall well-being. The Sun’s entry into Capricorn not only signifies the celebration of Makar Sankranti but also marks the conclusion of the Kharmas period, paving the way for the initiation of Manglik Karya.
Jyotish Acharya’s Insights: Arghya and Prosperity
According to Jyotish Acharya Pandit Rakesh Jha, offering Arghya (ritualistic water offering) and performing puja to Lord Surya during Makar Sankranti brings prosperity and well-being to the family. The ritualistic bath in the Ganges holds special significance on this day.
Vedic Wisdom: Uttarayan and Dakshinayan
In Vedic scriptures, Uttarayan is considered the day of the gods, while Dakshinayan is considered their night. To receive the blessings of Lord Surya, devotees offer Arghya, consisting of black sesame seeds, jaggery, red sandalwood, red flowers, and unbroken rice, in a copper vessel.
Acts of Charity and Virtue: Key to Positive Outcomes
Engaging in acts of charity and virtue on this day is believed to bring manifold positive outcomes. Lord Surya, being the father of Lord Shani, shower devotees with his blessings when offerings are made to Shani’s favorite items. This fosters an increase in respect and dignity.
Embracing Abundance: Donations and Positive Consequences
Donating to the needy on Makar Sankranti 2024 and participating in religious activities result in multiple folds of positive consequences. The items made from sesame seeds, especially on this day, hold great significance in pleasing Lord Shani and ensuring continued prosperity for the family. Additionally, consuming sesame and jaggery during the cold season is considered beneficial for one’s health.
In Conclusion: Makar Sankranti as a Festival of Blessings
In summary, Makar Sankranti 2024 is a festival celebrated with fervor, symbolizing the transition to a more auspicious period and invoking blessings for health, wealth, and prosperity through various religious and charitable activities.
