Makar sankranti festival is celebrated every year on 14 January. Makar Sankranti is one of the most propitious occasions celebrated in almost all parts of the country bringing favourable circumstances and good luck. Several names and a variety of traditions are witnessed on this festival in different states. The Sun transition from zodiac sign Sagittarius to Capricorn during the winter solstice is known as Makar Sankranti. The journey of Sun traveling northwards(from Dakshinayana to Uttarayana)is sacred and auspicious. Taking dip in holy river, praying the diety, fasting and giving daan or charity are considered extremely holy deeds on sankranti.
Makar Sankranti is also known as Khichadi (a dish made from rice and lentils). Eating khichadi on sankranti gives relief from many graha dosha’s.One feels, “Yes, I am free!” Shrimad Bhagwatam expresses this philosophy through the narration of the life stories of 24 incarnations of Lord Vishnu. Amongst these, the tenth volume of the Shrimad Bhagwatam narrates in infinite detail, the story of Lord Krishna. Since all 24 incarnations are of Lord Vishnu, it is a vitally important scripture for the Vaishnavas.
