Makar Sankranti, celebrated annually on January 14 or 15, marks the transition of the Sun into Capricorn (Makara Rashi) and the onset of longer days. While most people associate the festival with kite flying and sweets, it holds lesser-known cultural and historical gems.

One intriguing fact is that Makar Sankranti is one of the few Hindu festivals aligned with the solar calendar, making its date consistent every year. Unlike other festivals, which follow the lunar calendar, this solar alignment signifies its astronomical significance.

The festival is celebrated under various names across India: Pongal in Tamil Nadu, Lohri in Punjab, Uttarayan in Gujarat, and Magh Bihu in Assam. Each region has its unique traditions, but the underlying theme remains gratitude for a bountiful harvest.

Another fascinating aspect is the ritual of taking a holy dip in rivers like the Ganga, Yamuna, and Godavari. This act is believed to wash away sins and bring spiritual purification. The festival coincides with the Kumbh Mela and Magh Mela in some years, drawing millions of devotees.

Makar Sankranti also symbolizes unity through its diverse practices. For example, the tradition of sharing sesame and jaggery sweets (til-gud) carries the message of harmony: "Let sweetness prevail in our words and relationships."

Interestingly, the day is also linked to ancient legends, such as the victory of Lord Vishnu over demons, signifying the triumph of good over evil. In Maharashtra, married women exchange haldi-kumkum as a gesture of goodwill, adding a unique cultural dimension.