Makar Sankranti and Pongal are two widely celebrated festivals in India, marking the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign Capricorn. These festivals signify the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer days, symbolizing prosperity and gratitude. A key question often asked is, “Which deity is primarily worshiped during Makar Sankranti and Pongal festivals?” Let’s explore the cultural and spiritual significance of these festivals and their associated deities.
Deities Worshiped During Makar Sankranti
- Lord Surya (The Sun God)
- The primary deity worshiped during Makar Sankranti is Lord Surya.
- Devotees offer water (Arghya) to the rising Sun to seek blessings for health, prosperity, and spiritual growth.
- The Sun’s movement into the northern hemisphere (Uttarayan) is considered highly auspicious, symbolizing new beginnings.
- Goddess Lakshmi
- In some regions, people worship Goddess Lakshmi during Makar Sankranti, praying for wealth and prosperity.
- Lord Vishnu
- Lord Vishnu is also revered on this day, signifying the triumph of good over evil. It is believed that he ended the terror of the demon Sankarasur on this day.
Deities Worshiped During Pongal
- Lord Indra
- On the first day of Pongal, known as Bhogi Pongal, Lord Indra, the Rain God, is worshiped for good harvests and rains.
- Lord Surya (The Sun God)
- Surya Pongal, the second day, is dedicated to Lord Surya. Devotees cook sweet Pongal and offer it to the Sun God as a token of gratitude for a bountiful harvest.
- Cows and Bulls
- On the third day, Mattu Pongal, cows and bulls are worshiped as symbols of agricultural prosperity. Farmers thank these animals for their role in farming.
Rituals and Traditions
- Devotees wake up early, take a holy dip in rivers, and perform Makar Sankranti Ki Puja by offering water, flowers, and food to the deities.
- Pongal celebrations include preparing Pongal rice, decorating homes with Kolam (rangoli), and exchanging gifts.
- In both festivals, the rituals are a way to honor nature, deities, and the cycle of life.
Why Worship Lord Surya and Other Deities?
- The worship of Lord Surya during these festivals is symbolic of the Sun’s power in sustaining life on Earth.
- Lord Indra’s importance during Pongal highlights the value of rain and natural elements in agriculture.
- The spiritual essence of these rituals is to express gratitude for nature’s blessings and seek divine protection for future endeavors.
FAQs
- Which is the main deity for Makar Sankranti?
- The primary deity for Makar Sankranti is Lord Surya (The Sun God).
- Who is worshiped during Pongal?
- Pongal primarily involves the worship of Lord Surya, Lord Indra, and cows as a symbol of agricultural prosperity.
- What is the significance of Makar Sankranti Ki Puja?
- It symbolizes the transition to longer days and is a gesture of gratitude towards the Sun and nature for their blessings.