Makar Sankranti is a festival related to farmers. Just as the festival of Raja is celebrated for three days, this festival is also famous in villages such as Makara Mela or Makara Jatra.
This festival is considered the first day of the Makara month. Sankranti refers to the day of transfer of the sun from one zodiac to another. On this day, the sun moves from the Sagittarius to Capricorn. This day is also considered as the beginning of the Uttarayan period of the Sun.
On every Sankranti, the sun moves from one zodiac sign to another. On the day of Makar Sankranti, the sun moves northwards for 6 months and goes to the Capricorn. During this period, various family functions like marriage, sacred thread ceremonies, etc. are conducted.
According to the Odia saying, "Makara Dina Bakara huye" which means the daytime gets longer after the Makar Sankranti.
It is believed that on this day, Devi Sankranti killed Shankarasura. The Hindus believe that for any person who dies after Uttarayan, his soul goes to heaven. From this day onwards, people start worshipping the Sun and the light. At some places, Lord Shiva is also worshipped. It is believed that during these days, taking a bath in the river in the morning and worshipped the Sun God removes one of all sins. On this day, a kite flying competition is also conducted.
Makara chaula
Just before this occasion, paddy, sugarcane, and new crops are harvested. So on this auspicious day, a mixture of new arua rice, Jaggery, cheese, grated coconut, bananas, ghee, and milk is made. This mixture is served to the deities and also at the place where the paddy grains are separated ( dhanakhala). This mixture is known as Makara chaula. Along with it is served 'Tilua' which is a biscuit made of sugar or jaggery.
Hindu beliefs
The Hindus believe that on this day worshipping Lord Jagannath gives the fruit of Rajasuya yajna. By worshipping Lord Jagannath, people get rid of all sins and attain salvation.
Tusu parba
This festival is famous in North Odisha specifically among the tribal people of Mayurbhanj and Keonjhar. The people of the Kudumi tribe celebrate this festival as Tusu parba. The Tusu song during this festival is very heart-touching. People prepare various delicacies and wear new clothes. This festival is celebrated among the tribals with great pomp and show. The villages become very lively with the fairs and celebrations. They believe that this festival is a symbol of love, care, and goodwill.
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