Chief Minister Mohan Majhi Wishes Odisha Residents a Joyful Makar Sankranti

Synopsis
On January 14, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi warmly greeted the people of Odisha, celebrating Makar Sankranti. He highlighted the festival's significance in promoting joy, prosperity, and unity among families and communities.
Key Takeaways
- CM Mohan Charan Majhi extends greetings for Makar Sankranti.
- The festival marks the Sun's northward journey.
- Makar Sankranti symbolizes new beginnings and prosperity.
- Unique customs are observed in Odisha for this festival.
- Special rituals take place at Jagannath Temple in Puri.
Bhubaneswar, Jan 14 (NationPress) Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Tuesday conveyed his heartfelt greetings to the residents of Odisha in celebration of Makar Sankranti.
“Warm regards and best wishes to all on this auspicious occasion of Makar Sankranti. This festival signifies the northward journey of the Sun (Uttarayan),” he stated.
“In alignment with our rich culture and traditions, the reverence for the Sun promotes joy and prosperity within families and communities. Makar Sankranti stands as one of the most celebrated festivals in India, holding a significant position in the Jagannath culture. It transcends mere religious observance, embracing themes of fraternity, social unity, and harmony,” CM Majhi expressed in a video message shared on his X account on Tuesday.
It is important to note that Makar Sankranti is a highly significant harvest festival celebrated nationwide with great enthusiasm.
This harvest celebration represents fresh beginnings and abundance for families and communities. It occurs annually on January 14, marking the Sun's shift into Capricorn (Makara Rashi), which signifies the start of longer days and the conclusion of winter.
Observances of this festival vary across the country, featuring various regional customs such as kite-flying in Gujarat, Pongal in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, Bihu in Assam, and Lohri in Punjab.
In many regions of India, this occasion is also marked with traditional songs and dances around bonfires.
In Odisha, Makar Sankranti is celebrated with unique customs, where locals prepare Makar Chaula using uncooked newly harvested rice, bananas, coconuts, jaggery, sesame seeds, rasagola, khai, and chhena puddings.
After offering these delicacies to the deities as 'naivedya', they share the feast with family and friends.
Special ceremonies are also held at the renowned Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha to honor Makar Sankranti.