Today, 14 January 2013 is Makara Sankranti, Pongal, Magh Bihu, & Makaravilakku or Makarajyothi at Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple. Makara Sankranthi marks the transition of Sun into Makara rashi (Capricorn).
It is celebrated as Pongal in Tamil Nadu; Lohri in Punjab, Haryana, Delhi and some other North Indian states; as Magh Bihu in Assam.
Makara Sankranthi is a biggest festival for Telugu and Tamil people.
With Makara Sankramana, Thai Masam begins in Tamil Nadu and Makara Masam starts in Kerala.
Makara Sankramana Snana are performed at various places along the river banks of Ganga, Godavari, Krishna, Kaveri, Yamuna, etc.
This year’s Makar Sankranti also marks the beginning of Purna Kumbh Mela (Maha Kumbh Mela) of Allahabad. It is held once in 12 years.
Magh Mela begins on Makar Sankranti day. Gangasagar Mela is another big fair celebrated in West Bengal with a congregation of millions of devotees.
Makara Sankranti Phala 2013, Predictions, results
Health and Environmental benefits in celebrating Sankranthi in traditional manner