Makar(a) Sankranti also referred to as Uttarayana, Maghi, or simply Sankranti, is a Hindu observance and a festival. Usually falling on the date of January 15 annually, this occasion marks the transition of the Sun from the zodiac of Sagittarius (dhanu) to Capricorn (makara). Since the Sun is regarded to have moved from the southern hemisphere to the northern hemisphere on this day in the Hindu calendar, the festival is dedicated to the solar deity, Surya and is observed to mark a new beginning.
“Sankranti Habba” refers to the celebration of the harvest festival called “Sankranti” in some parts of India. Sankranti is a major festival observed in various states, especially in the southern and western regions of the country. It is celebrated to mark the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makar Rashi) as it begins its northward journey, leading to longer days and the onset of spring.
The festival is known by different names in various states, such as Makar Sankranti in Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Karnataka, Pongal in Tamil Nadu, Magh Bihu in Assam, and Lohri in Punjab. The celebration generally takes place around January 14th or 15th, depending on the Hindu calendar and the positioning of the sun. The significance and customs of Sankranti Habba vary from region to region, but common elements include:
Sankranti Habba is primarily an agricultural festival, celebrating the successful harvest of crops. It marks the end of the winter season and the beginning of longer, warmer days, which are considered favorable for farming. In several states, especially in Gujarat and Rajasthan, kite flying is a popular tradition during Sankranti. People of all ages participate in flying colorful kites, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere in the sky.
On the eve of Sankranti, people light bonfires in their communities, a tradition known as Lohri in Punjab. The bonfires symbolize the end of the winter solstice and are a way to gather and celebrate together. Sankranti is also a time to enjoy various traditional dishes made from newly harvested crops. For instance, in Karnataka, people prepare a special dish called “Yellu Bella”. Sankranti Yellu” is a traditional mixture or snack prepared and shared during the Makar Sankranti festival.
“Sankranti Yellu” is also known by different regional names, such as “Ellu Bella” in Karnataka, “Ellu Urundai” in Tamil Nadu, and “Til Gul” in Maharashtra. The name “Yellu” or “Ellu” refers to sesame seeds, which are one of the main ingredients of this mixture. The preparation of Sankranti Yellu involves combining various ingredients, each carrying symbolic significance. The mixture typically includes the following items:
Sesame Seeds (Ellu): Sesame seeds are an essential component of Sankranti Yellu. They are considered auspicious and represent fertility, prosperity, and good luck.Jaggery (Bella): Jaggery, a type of unrefined sugar, is added to the mixture. It symbolizes sweetness and joy in life.Coconut (Kobbari): Grated coconut is another key ingredient in Sankranti Yellu. It represents the idea of togetherness and bonding among family members and friends. Roasted Gram (Hurigadale): Roasted gram, also known as chana dal or daria, adds crunch to the mixture and signifies strength and resilience.Peanuts (Shenga): Peanuts are added to the mix and symbolize health and well-being.
All these ingredients are dry-roasted or lightly fried and then mixed together to create the Sankranti Yellu. It is then distributed among family members, friends, and neighbors as a token of goodwill and to spread joy during the festive occasion.
The act of preparing and sharing Sankranti Yellu is considered a gesture of love, unity, and harmonious coexistence. By combining different ingredients with symbolic meanings, the tradition fosters a sense of gratitude, sharing, and the celebration of life’s varied flavors. Overall, Sankranti Yellu is not only a delightful and nutritious snack but also an embodiment of the spirit of Makar Sankranti, which emphasizes the importance of unity, joy, and goodwill among people. While in Tamil Nadu, the main dish is “Pongal,” a sweet rice preparation cooked with jaggery and lentils.
Sugar cane holds a special significance during the celebration of Makar Sankranti. The use of sugar cane during this festival is a customary practice in various regions, and it carries cultural, agricultural, and symbolic importance. Here are some ways sugar cane is used during Sankranti. Sugar cane is often exchanged as a token of good wishes and blessings during Makar Sankranti along with Yellu Bella. People gift sugar cane sticks to friends, relatives, and neighbors as a symbol of sweetness and prosperity in the New Year.
Chewing on sugar cane sticks is a popular tradition during Sankranti. It is believed to be auspicious and is considered an enjoyable way to celebrate the festival. The sweetness of the sugar cane is symbolic of bringing sweetness and happiness into one’s life. Makar Sankranti is also associated with the preparation and consumption of jaggery (unrefined sugar) in various dishes and sweets. Jaggery is made from the juice extracted from sugar cane, and its use during Sankranti is significant due to its association with the harvest season.
Makar Sankranti marks the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer days, signifying the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makara). The harvesting of sugar cane coincides with this period, making it an important agricultural produce during this time.
Taking a holy dip in rivers, especially the Ganges River, is considered auspicious on Sankranti. People believe that this act cleanses them of their sins and brings good fortune. The festival promotes the spirit of giving and charity. People often donate food, clothes, and money to the less fortunate as a way to spread joy and blessings.
Sankranti Habba is an occasion for people to come together, celebrate the agricultural abundance, and express gratitude to nature and the sun for their role in sustaining life. It is a time of joy, harmony, and renewal as people welcome the changing season and look forward to new beginnings.
