The Ditible
Across Nepal, jubilant celebrations mark the auspicious festival of Maghe Sankranti 2080, also known as Makar Sankranti. The country resounds with the echoes of chanting, the aroma of delicacies, and the joyous dips in holy rivers and ponds.
Devotees throng sacred sites like Devghat, Barahchhetra, and Ridi to take a purifying bath, seeking blessings and marking the day’s astrological significance. As the sun enters the Capricorn constellation, it’s believed to usher in longer days and warmer months.
Religious fervor fills temples as people offer prayers and savoring special festival treats. Ghee, yam, khichadi, and sweets like Chaku and sesame-molasses delights dance on plates, while the Newar community observes “Ghyo Chaku Sallnhu” with ghee, chaku, and remembrance of ancestors.
Maghe Sankranti is not just a celebration of faith, but also of health and tradition. Ayurveda recognizes the food consumed on this day as a source of a balanced diet, boosting immunity and well-being.
At Taumadhi Tole, Bhaktapur, the Tilmadhav Narayan Temple comes alive with a special festival and puja for Deepakankar Buddha. Meanwhile, the Tharu community paints the Tarai districts with vibrant hues, celebrating Maghi for five days with gusto.
From the Tarai plains to the mountain peaks, Maghe Sankranti/Makar Sankranti unites Nepal in a vibrant tapestry of devotion, joy, and cultural richness. It’s a day to cleanse the soul, embrace warmth, and savor the sweet taste of tradition.
