Why in the News?

• The Mahakumbh Mela 2025, currently underway in Prayagraj, witnessed its first Amrit snan or shahi snan on 14th January, coinciding with the auspicious occasion of Makar Sankranti.
• This ritual bath marked the beginning of a series of sacred dips in the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers.

Key Points:

Significance of Makar Sankranti:

=> Celebrated on 14th January, the festival marks the Sun’s transition into Makar raashi (Capricorn).

=> This transition, known as Sankranti, is particularly special as it signals the Sun’s northward journey, known as Uttarayan.

=> This movement heralds the end of the harsh winter months and the onset of warmer, longer days.

=> In Hindu mythology, Uttarayan is regarded as the gods' daytime, signifying an auspicious period for celebrations and spiritual endeavors.

=> Bhishma Pitamah of the Mahabharata chose to pass away during Uttarayan to attain spiritual liberation.

=> The festival is also significant as it ends the kharmas, a month-long period during which auspicious events are avoided.

=> The Sun’s entry into Capricorn, the house ruled by Shani (Saturn), who is considered the Sun’s son, is celebrated as a familial reunion, a key theme in Hindu traditions.

=> The festivities associated with the day is known by different names in different parts of the country:

• Lohri by north Indian Hindus and Sikhs.
• Sukarat in central India.
• Bhogali Bihu by Assamese Hindus, and
• Pongal by Tamil Hindu and other South Indian Hindus.

Other Significant Dates for Ritual Bathing Include:

• Mauni Amavasya (29 January): A day of silence and introspection, considered highly auspicious for spiritual purification.
• Vasant Panchami (3 February): Celebrated as a festival of learning and wisdom, marking the arrival of spring.
• Maha Shivratri (February 26): The concluding day of the Kumbh Mela, dedicated to Lord Shiva, symbolizing the union of divine energy.