Is Pongal the Same as Sankranti?

Introduction to Pongal and Sankranti

Pongal, one of the most significant festivals in South India, is celebrated across India albeit with different names and customs. It is often mistaken for other similar festivals such as Sankranti, which is celebrated on the same day in different parts of India. To understand their similarities and differences, it is essential to delve into the background and customs of both festivals.

Regional Names and Celebrations

Each region in India celebrates Pongal and Sankranti with its own unique name and customs:

Pongal in Tamil Nadu Makar Sankranti in North India Lohri in Punjab Uttarayana in various parts of India Bhogi in Andhra Pradesh Bihu in Assam Thai Pongal in Tamil Nadu Poki festival in different regions

While the principles and reasons for these festivals are similar, the procedures and customs can vary significantly from one region to another.

The Celebration of Makar Sankranti and Pongal

Makar Sankranti, which translates to the event of the Sun entering the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makara), is a widespread and significant festival. In Tamil Nadu, it is celebrated as Pongal, a festival with profound astronomical significance. Pongal marks the beginning of Uttarayana, the sun's northward journey, which is considered auspicious in Hinduism.

The celebration of Pongal involves various rituals and traditions, such as cooking rice in new pots until they overflow, reflecting abundance. Other customs include preparing dishes, praying, and offering vegetables, sugar cane, and spices to the gods. Devotees then consume these offerings to cleanse themselves of past sins. Rituals also include performing puja to crops and engaging in community meals.

Contrasts with Makar Sankranti

While Pongal is celebrated on the 14th of January and is based on a solar calendar, Makar Sankranti dates have shifted due to the Indian calendar system being technically luni-solar. The festival's name originates from the sun entering the Makara zodiac, which historically was around December but now falls around January 15.

Traditionally, the festival is marked by the distribution of sweets, taking baths in holy rivers, and performing meritorious acts. The day is considered sacred, and people engage in community activities like the Jalli kattu in Tamil Nadu.

Social and Cultural Implications

Festivals like Pongal and Makar Sankranti play a crucial role in fostering unity and spreading love among communities. They bring people closer through rituals, giving them a sense of shared cultural heritage. Even though Pongal originally celebrated the agricultural community, it has become a festival enjoyed by all, symbolizing joy, renewal, and communal bonding.

Makar Sankranti, celebrated across India, is marked by a range of customs from region to region, emphasizing the importance of unity in diversity. Its primary intention is to break the barriers between neighbors and strengthen communal bonds through shared celebrations and acts of devotion.

Conclusion

Though Pongal and Makar Sankranti share similarities, they are distinct festivals with their own unique customs and cultural significance. Understanding these differences can help in appreciating the rich diversity and shared traditions that bind communities across India.

Keywords: Pongal, Sankranti, Makar Sankranti