Festival 2025: How are Lohri, Makarsankranti and Pongal Different?
Makar Sankranti, unlike most festivals that follow the lunar cycle, follows the solar cycle and hence is observed on nearly the same day each year.
Difference between Pongal, Makar Sankranti, and Lohri: The arrival of January signals the beginning of harvest celebrations across India, a celebration of nature's bounty and a reminder of the country's agricultural roots. This season is highlighted by three important festivals: Lohri, Makar Sankranti, and Pongal, each with its unique set of customs, rituals, and cultural significance. Let's take a look at how these holidays differ while yet having the same thread of gratitude and joy.
Lohri 2025
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Lohri is primarily observed in Punjab and portions of northern India. It is observed on January 13 every year to mark the conclusion of the winter solstice and the start of longer days. The event is closely associated with the harvesting of rabi crops, namely sugarcane.
Makar Sankranti 2025
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The day after Lohri, January 14, is Makar Sankranti, a festival observed in various ways around the country. Why is Makar Sankranti celebrated? It represents the sun's transition into Makar Rashi, hence the name. The day also marks the conclusion of the winter solstice and the start of the sun's northward, or Uttarayan, voyage. Thus, it is also known as Uttarayan. Devotees take holy dips in sacred waterways, fly kites, dress in traditional attire, and worship the Sun God.
Pongal 2025
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Pongal is celebrated after Makar Sankranti. It is a four-day harvest festival that includes Bhogi Pongal, Surya Pongal, Mattu Pongal, and Kanum Pongal. People commemorate it by decorating their homes with rangolis or kolams, preparing the first rice of the season with milk and jaggery, taking out valuables, and attending communal events.
Difference between Pongal, Makar Sankranti, and Lohri
| Difference | Pongal 2025 | Makar Sankranti 2025 | Lohri 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Key Rituals and Customs | The festival begins with Bhogi Pongal, a day of discarding old items and welcoming fresh beginnings. The second day, Surya Pongal, is dedicated to the worship of the Sun God. Mattu Pongal, celebrated on the third day, commemorates cattle, which play an important part in agriculture. The final day, Kaanum Pongal is designated for social gatherings and family activities. | Ritual bathing in sacred rivers such as the Ganges, Yamuna, and Godavari is popular because it is said to purify the spirit. Kite flying is popular in states such as Gujarat and Rajasthan. | In the evening, people gather around bonfires and feed the flames sesame seeds, jaggery, and popcorn. Traditional folk songs and dances, such as bhangra and Siddha, liven up the ambience. |
| Significance | Pongal emphasizes the value of agricultural culture and the symbiotic link between humans, animals, and nature. | The festival is celebrated to thank nature for a good harvest and to welcome prosperity. | Lohri is a social event that represents warmth and optimism for a bountiful harvest. It is also significant for families commemorating the first Lohri of a baby or wedded pair. |
| Food | Pongal, a meal cooked with newly harvested rice, milk, and jaggery, serves as the highlight. Other traditional foods include vadai, payasam, and murukku. | Sesame and jaggery sweets like tilgul and chikkis are prepared, symbolizing unity and sweetness. | Foods like sarson ka saag, makki ki roti, and til-based sweets are integral to the Lohri feast. |
So, all three commemorate the change of seasons, with the key variation being how they are honoured. Pongal and Lohri are also harvest holidays during which people show appreciation for nature and God. The celebrations offer a look into rich and spiritual Indian customs.
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