Makar Sankranti, the sacred Hindu festival, is being celebrated across the country, including Odisha, on Wednesday, marking an important transition in the Hindu calendar. The festival brings a vibrant atmosphere nationwide, with each region observing it through its unique customs and traditions.
The day marks the Sun God’s transition from Sagittarius to Capricorn, ushering in Uttarayan, considered highly auspicious. Devotees believe that taking a holy dip and giving charity on this day brings spiritual merit and prosperity, prompting widespread religious rituals across temples and sacred sites.
Temples and cities across Odisha are abuzz with festivities. At Puri Srimandir, special rituals are underway, including the offering of Makar rice brought by Maa Lakshmi to the presiding deity. Authorities have made arrangements to manage the expected influx of devotees.
In Mayurbhanj district, the festival is celebrated on a grand scale, with residents donning new clothes and preparing traditional dishes at home. In southern Odisha, Bhogi, a related festival, is observed, while the city of Berhampur is lively with three-day celebrations among the Telugu community, reflecting devotion, cultural unity, and festive joy.
