Makar Sankranti Festival Date, Story, Rituals and Celebrations

Note: Dates may vary.

Makar Sankranti festival always falls on January 14. Makar Sankranti occurs when the Sun is in the zodiac sign of Capricorn. Makar according to the Hindu calendar when the Sun is in this position, it is considered to be very auspicious.

The devotees try and get to the river and take a dip in the waters. The water is low in the river during this time of the year so children have a great time playing and bathing. A mela is held in the villages and the children enjoy ice-creams and chaat which are so common to see in the cities.

As on all festivals, it is good to be charitable. One normally gives aims to the needy. Of course, children should be taught not only to be charitable on this day, but always.

In days of joint families the daughters-in-law of the family gave little gifts to their mothers in law and to the other members of the family. Makar Sankranti is celebrated all over India. The way it is celebrated may differ, but the thoughts are alike.