Makara Sankramana, Uttarayana Parvakala
Makara Sankramana, Uttarayana Parvakala
Definition: Uttaraayana refers to the Sun's northward journey in the zodiac, from Capricorn (Makara) to Gemini (Mithuna). It is one of the two six-month periods in the Hindu calendar, the other being Dakshinaayana, which is the Sun's southward journey.
Timing: Uttaraayana begins with Makara Sankramana (Makara Sankranti), usually around January 14th. This marks the transition of the Sun into Capricorn and is considered a holy time.
Significance:
- Celestial Importance: Uttaraayana is believed to be a sacred period because it signifies the Sun’s movement towards the northern direction, where Vaikunta (the abode of Vishnu) is located.
- Spiritual Activities: It is a time for special religious observances, including fasting, charity, and rituals.
Uttaraayana Parvakaala:
- This refers to the auspicious time during the transition of the Sun into Capricorn.
- Rituals: Involves sacred baths, prayers, and charitable acts. Common practices include donating sesame seeds (Thila), performing rituals for ancestors, and engaging in spiritual activities.
Festivals:
- Bhogi: Celebrated the day before Makara Sankramana, marking the end of the solar month Dhanurmasam.
- Makara Sankranti: The day when the Sun enters Capricorn, marking the beginning of Uttaraayana.
Significance of Uttaraayana:
- Devotional Focus: It’s a time to seek blessings from both gods and ancestors. The Sun's northward journey is thought to be particularly auspicious for spiritual progress and prosperity.
Practical Observances:
- ShatThila Karma: Involves various rituals with sesame seeds (Tharpanam to be given for Samastha Pithru)
In summary, Uttaraayana is a highly revered period in Hindu tradition, associated with spiritual significance, religious observances, and cultural festivities.
