How and Why Is Makar Sankranti Celebrated?
Sankranti, as described in the Vedas, interprets how the Sun moves from one Rashi (zodiac constellation) to the next. Thus, a year has twelve Sankrantis. As one of the few Hindu holidays that coincides with the solar cycle, it is also known as “Poush Sankranti,” and it is regarded as the most auspicious of these. Beyond just its religious significance, Makar Sankranti’s importance cannot be overstated. To be exact, the celebration also heralds the arrival of harvest season, when fresh produce is joyfully praised and shared.

This day signifies the official end of winter when the Sun moves from the Dakshinayana (South) to the Uttarayana (North) hemisphere, signaling a change in seasons. Both an In addition to being a seasonal celebration and religious event, the event also signifies the sun’s entry into Makar Raashi, the Capricorn sign of the zodiac.