Celebrating the harvest festival: Makar Sankranti, Lohri and Pongal

India gears up to celebrate the harvest festival as the winter chill begins to fade. It is a time to express gratitude to the nature. Makar Sankranti, Lohri and Pongal are three significant festivals that mark the beginning of the sun's journey towards the northern hemisphere, bringing with it longer days and warmer temperatures.

Makar Sankranti: A celebration of the sun's journey

Makar Sankranti is celebrated every year on 14th January, which marks the beginning of the sun's journey towards the northern hemisphere. The festival is celebrated with great joy across India, particularly in the states of Maharashtra, Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh. On this day, people take a dip in the holy rivers, offer prayers to the sun god and distribute sweets and tilguls (sesame seeds) among friends and family.

Lohri: A festival of bonfires and revelry

Lohri is celebrated on 13th January, which is a popular festival in North India, particularly in the states of Punjab, Haryana and Himachal Pradesh. The festival is celebrated with bonfires, singing and dancing. People gather around the bonfire, throw puffed rice and popcorn into the flames, and sing traditional folk songs. Lohri is also a time to celebrate the arrival of longer days and the harvesting of crops.

Pongal: A festival of thanksgiving

Pongal, celebrated over four days in mid-January, is a significant festival in Tamil Nadu. The festival is a time to express gratitude to the sun god, the rain god and the cattle that help in the harvesting process. On the first day of Pongal, people worship the sun god and offer prayers for a bountiful harvest. The second day is dedicated to the worship of cattle, while the third day is a time for family reunions and celebrations. The fourth and final day is a time for thanksgiving and reflection.

Protecting yourself and your loved ones

Let's not forget to prioritise our safety and well-being as we celebrate these festivals. Whether you're travelling to visit family, riding your bike to attend festivities or driving your car to a nearby town, it's important to have the right insurance coverage.

The final note

Makar Sankranti, Lohri and Pongal are three significant festivals that celebrate the harvest season and the beginning of the sun's journey towards the northern hemisphere. Let us remember the importance of living in harmony with nature and expressing gratitude for the bounty of the earth during these festivals.