MAKAR SANKRANTI

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Makar Sankranti and Uttarayana: A Clarification

It is a common misconception that Makar Sankranti coincides with Uttarayana, the Sun's northward journey. However, these are distinct events, both astronomically and religiously. Thousands of years ago, specifically in 285 CE (according to Lahiri Ayanamsha), the two coincided, but they have since diverged due to axial precession. Uttarayana, derived from uttara (north) and ayana (journey), occurs at the Winter Solstice when the Sun begins its northern trajectory.

Although the Winter Solstice is no longer widely observed in India for religious purposes, it retains significance in Hinduism. For instance, Bhishma Pitamah of the Mahabharata chose Uttarayana to leave his mortal body, despite its non-coincidence with Makar Sankranti during that era.

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