Rare auspicious alignment on Makar Sankranti, donating this item may open doors of fortune
New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Makar Sankranti on January 14 is considered especially auspicious this year, as it coincides with Shattila Ekadashi. The combination of these two occasions holds great religious significance in Hindu tradition.
On Makar Sankranti, the Sun enters Capricorn (Makara Rashi), marking the beginning of Uttarayan. Worship of the Sun God is considered highly beneficial on this day. Charity, especially food donation, is regarded as virtuous, and the consumption and donation of items made from jaggery and sesame seeds (til) are given special importance. Offering water to the Sun God is also an important ritual on this occasion.
This year, Shattila Ekadashi of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Magh falls on the same day as Makar Sankranti. Shattila Ekadashi is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The word ‘Shattila’ refers to the six different ways in which sesame seeds are used. Sesame seeds are believed to be sacred and capable of bestowing positive results. Observing rituals related to sesame on this Ekadashi is said to destroy sins, remove poverty, fulfill wishes, and attract the blessings of Lord Vishnu.
Charity, fasting, and devotion performed during the Uttarayan period are believed to yield multiplied results. Therefore, donating sesame seeds during this rare alignment becomes even more significant. On Shattila Ekadashi, the tradition includes six uses of sesame: bathing with water mixed with sesame, applying sesame paste on the body, offering sesame in sacred fire rituals, donating sesame to Brahmins or the needy, consuming sesame-based food while fasting, and drinking water mixed with sesame or offering it to ancestors. These practices are believed to provide physical, mental, and spiritual benefits.
According to the Drik Panchang, the Ekadashi Tithi on January 14 will last until 5:52 pm, after which Dwadashi will begin. Rahu Kaal on Wednesday will be from 12:30 pm to 1:49 pm, during which no auspicious activities should be started. Anuradha Nakshatra will remain until 3:03 am on January 15. The Moon will be positioned in Scorpio. Sunrise will occur at 7:15 am, while sunset will be at 5:45 pm.