Maghe Sankranti


Maghe Sankranti is a Nepalese festival observed in the months of January on the first day of the month of Magh and brings an end to the ill-omened month of Poush during which period all the religious ceremonies are forbidden. The festival eventually marks the coming of warmer weather and better days of health and fortune as on this particular day, the sun enters that part of the zodiac which is symbolized by Capricorn. It starts on its northward journey in its heavenly course on this day, thus announcing the commencement of the Uttarayan. According to the Nepalese belief, this day consequently marks the division of the winter and summer solstice. Bathing in rivers is prescribed for this day, especially at the River confluence and feasting with rich foods of special preparation is common in the family. In addition to the holy bathing and worship of shrines, certain auspicious foods like black cakes made of seasame seeds, molasys, ghee, sweet potatoes and green leaf spinach are taken on this particular day. Families come together and share these delights. Married daughters and families are invited to parental homes for festivities and blessings- serving as an occasion to renew family ties and to feast together. According to Mahabharata, King Bhisma, who had the power to control is own death, happened to choose to die on the day of Maghe Sankranti. Therefore it is commonly believed that dying on this particularly auspicious day brings about Moksha- a release from the cycle of birth and death.

Glance of Nepal