Makar Sankranti is a major Hindu harvest festival celebrating the sun’s transition into the Capricorn (Makar) zodiac sign, marking the end of winter and the start of longer days (Uttarayana), symbolizing new beginnings, prosperity, and gratitude through rituals like holy dips in rivers, kite flying, special foods (khichdi, til-gud), and regional variations like Pongal (TN) and Lohri (Punjab). It’s a time for spiritual cleansing, family gatherings, and honoring the sun god (Surya).
