Information about Makar Sankranti festival to teach our kids

January 02, 2025 9

What is Makar Sankranti?

Makar Sankranti is a festival that marks the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn, also known as Makara in Sanskrit. This transition is significant because it signals the end of winter and the beginning of longer days, bringing warmth and light. Makar Sankranti 2025 will be celebrated with the same excitement and traditions. This festival is celebrated on January 14th each year, and its importance lies in the Sun’s movement and the promise of a bountiful harvest.

The festival signifies the Sun God’s journey to the northern hemisphere, where it brings prosperity and energy to the Earth. It is a great time to teach kids why Makar Sankranti is celebrated and help them understand its deeper significance, such as honoring the Sun and the crops that nourish us.

Why Do We Celebrate Makar Sankranti?

Makar Sankranti is celebrated to thank the Sun God for the energy and light he provides, which helps the crops grow. It’s also a harvest festival, where people gather to celebrate the fruits of their hard work. Kids can learn that this festival is about being thankful for the food and resources we receive from nature.

It’s a great way for children to understand the concept of gratitude, as well as the significance of seasonal changes. The festival is all about coming together, celebrating the harvest, and giving thanks for the abundance in our lives. It also marks the beginning of a new year for many communities, making it a joyful time for renewal and togetherness.

How Do Kids Celebrate Makar Sankranti?

For kids, Makar Sankranti is full of fun activities that make the festival even more exciting! Some of the best ways kids celebrate are:

Flying Kites: One of the most exciting traditions of Makar Sankranti is kite flying. The skies are filled with colorful kites as people compete to cut each other's kites. Kids can get involved in this thrilling activity, learning about friendly competition and teamwork. You can show them some fun Makar Sankranti images of vibrant skies filled with kites to get them even more excited!
Eating Sweets: During Makar Sankranti, families prepare special sweets like tilgul (made from sesame seeds and jaggery). These treats are delicious and symbolize good health, sweetness in life, and prosperity.
Bonfires and Dancing: In many parts of India, especially in Gujarat and Maharashtra, families gather around bonfires and perform traditional dances like Garba and Dandiya. It’s a wonderful way for kids to learn about cultural traditions and enjoy the festival with family.
Prayers and Rituals: Many families also perform rituals to honor the Sun God. Kids can join in, learn about spiritual practices, and understand the importance of thanking nature for its blessings.

How is Makar Sankranti Celebrated in Different Parts of India?

Makar Sankranti is celebrated all over India, but the traditions vary from region to region. This diversity makes the festival even more special! Here’s how different states celebrate it:

In Gujarat and Rajasthan: People celebrate with colorful kites and outdoor activities. The sky is filled with kites as everyone tries to cut each other’s kites in mid-air. It’s a fun-filled competition for both kids and adults.
In Tamil Nadu: Known as Pongal, this is a harvest festival where families prepare a sweet rice dish called Pongal and offer it to the Sun God. It’s also a time for family gatherings and prayers, making it a beautiful tradition to share with kids.
In Punjab: Makar Sankranti is celebrated as Lohri, where people gather around a bonfire, sing songs, and dance traditional dances like Bhangra and Gidda. This is one of the most exciting and vibrant parts of the festival for kids to experience.
In Maharashtra: People exchange tilgul sweets, which are made of sesame and jaggery. They also visit relatives and friends, wishing them a prosperous year ahead. This tradition is a sweet way to share love and blessings with everyone.

The Significance of Makar Sankranti

Makar Sankranti significance lies in its connection to the Sun and its importance in the agricultural cycle. The festival marks a time of harvest and the return of warmth after the cold winter months. For kids, this is a wonderful opportunity to learn about how the Earth and Sun work together to provide for us. It’s also a time to reflect on the values of gratitude, community, and the changing seasons. The festival reminds us to appreciate the little things—like the Sun, the crops, and the time spent with loved ones.

Conclusion

Makar Sankranti is a festival that brings joy, warmth, and togetherness. Whether it’s flying kites, eating sweets, or dancing around a bonfire, this festival is filled with fun activities for everyone. By sharing the significance of Makar Sankranti with your kids, you’re helping them understand the value of nature, gratitude, and family traditions. This year, as we celebrate Makar Sankranti 2025, let’s make it even more special by teaching our little ones about its meaning and making lasting memories with them. And if you want to make it even more special, shop for healthy and delicious snacks here for your little ones.

So, what are your favorite Makar Sankranti traditions? How will you celebrate this year with your family?