Varied customs of Makara-Sankranthi
Makara
Sankranthi denotes entry of Sun into Makara-Capricorn and is celebrated across
the country. It is closely associated with onset of Uttarayana when the sun
starts its northward march. At some point in antiquity both coincided, but have
since slipped due to precession of equinoxes. Bath in sacred rivers, use of til-sesame,
sugarcane, boiling over of milk, flying kites, worship of cows, their
decoration with gaietyare the prominent features in celebration of Makara
Sankranthi. What do these have in common?
There is unity in diversity
Though
apparently unrelated, they are local manifestations of a unified ethos; like
branches of the same tree. That unifying thread is recognition of an epoch in
time afforded by nature. Our physiology is woven inextricably with the cycles
of nature. Daily circadian rhythms andmating patterns of animals are prominent
examples. Rishis of Bharata, by virtue of critical observation and pristine
lifestyle in harmony with nature, could feel and identify the periodic epochal
moments affording unfettered access to inward spiritual journey and enlightenment.
Uttarayana and Makara Sankranthi are such epochs, apt both for spiritual and
material advancement.
Principles of yoga underlie our traditions
Sugarcane
oozing with juice, regularly spaced rings and nodes that sprout leaves
symbolizes the cyclical nature of time and nectarine epochs therein. It is no
coincidence that sugarcane rings and epochal times are both called parva.
Boiling over of milk while celebrating plenty, are to a Yogi’s eye the arousal
of kundalini and the process of enlightenment within. The mighty bull and
gentle cow, mainstay of rural livelihood are embodiments of sattva guna
and induce the same in us as we bathe, decorate and bond with them. A bath in
the sacred rivers at this time stills the mind and breath; unfettering ourmindsas
it flies inwards and upwards. Sesame is ideal for worship of the Pitrs and also
the devas when used with jaggery and groundnut. Ancient texts document that the
six-month period of Uttarayana gives an impetus for inner journey through the
yogic path called Archiraadi-marga, that leads to liberation. Hence
predominantly spiritual rituals like Upanayanam are conducted
exclusively during the sacred period of Uttarayana.
This Makara
Sankranthi, as the Ardh-Kumbh gets underway at Prayagraj, may our kumbha
(pot) overflow with milk in our hearth and joy in our hearts.