On Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared his warm wishes with the nation in celebration of Makar Sankranti and Magh Bihu. While Makar Sankranti is widely celebrated, it also marks the astronomical event of "Uttarayan," when the sun transitions from the southern to the northern hemisphere. This transition holds significant importance in Hindu cosmology, as it is considered an auspicious time according to ancient Vedic traditions.

In his social media post, PM Modi expressed his hopes for new energy and enthusiasm for all citizens, writing in Hindi, “Many best wishes to all countrymen on Makar Sankranti. May this holy festival dedicated to the Uttarayan Sun bring new energy and enthusiasm into your life.” He further wished the nation a successful and joyous Uttarayan, praying that the festival would bring success and happiness to everyone’s lives.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also joined in the celebrations, sending heartfelt greetings on Makar Sankranti. On X, he shared, “This is the living form of our eternal culture and faith. On the auspicious occasion of the great festival of folk faith ‘Makar Sankranti,’ congratulations to all the devotees who earned virtue by taking the first ‘Amrit Snan’ at the Triveni Sangam in Mahakumbh-2025, Prayagraj!”

Why Makar Sankranti is Celebrated: Makar Sankranti is one of the most significant festivals in the Hindu calendar, symbolizing new beginnings and the harvest season. Celebrated across India, this festival has regional variations but universally signifies hope, prosperity, and a fresh start as the Sun moves into Capricorn (Makar Rashi). It marks the end of winter and the beginning of a new agricultural cycle. On this auspicious day, people express gratitude to nature for the harvest and embrace the prospects of wealth and success in the coming year. Makar Sankranti falls every year on January 14.

Why Bihu is Celebrated: Magh Bihu, also known as Bhogali Bihu or Maghor Bihu, is a major festival in Assam, celebrated with much enthusiasm. It marks the end of the harvest season and the beginning of a new year. Celebrated according to the Bengali Panjika, Magh Bihu is a vibrant festival that reflects Assam's deep agricultural roots and acknowledges the abundance of the harvest. However, the significance of Bihu goes beyond agriculture—it is a celebration of community, fostering unity through food, music, and customs that bring people together in joy and gratitude.

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