Mesh Sankranti, a significant Hindu festival, marks the transit of the Sun into the Mesh Rashi or Aries zodiac sign. Celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm across India, Mesh Sankranti holds deep religious and cultural significance. In 2024, Mesh Sankranti falls on the 12th of April. Let’s delve into the rituals, muhurat (auspicious timings), and the spiritual significance of this auspicious day.
The Auspicious Day of Mesh Sankranti
Mesh Sankranti, also known as Mesha Sankranti or Mesha Sankramanam, is observed as the beginning of the solar month of Mesh in the Hindu lunisolar calendar. This day is considered highly auspicious for embarking on new endeavors, performing religious ceremonies, and seeking divine blessings for prosperity and success. Mesh Sankranti typically occurs in the month of April according to the Gregorian calendar.
Rituals and Traditions
Snan (Holy Bath)
One of the most significant rituals observed on Mesh Sankranti is taking a holy bath in sacred rivers, especially the Ganges. Devotees believe that taking a dip in the holy waters during this auspicious time cleanses them of sins and purifies their soul. It is customary to visit riverbanks or ghats early in the morning and offer prayers to the Sun god before taking the holy bath.
Daan (Charity)
Charity or Daan holds immense importance during Mesh Sankranti. Devotees believe that performing acts of charity on this day brings blessings and prosperity. People often donate food, clothes, and other essentials to the less fortunate as a part of their spiritual practice. Additionally, donating sesame seeds, jaggery, grains, and other food items is considered auspicious on Mesh Sankranti.
Offerings to the Sun God
Offering prayers to the Sun god, Surya, is an integral part of Mesh Sankranti celebrations. Devotees wake up early in the morning and offer water, flowers, and sesame seeds to the Sun god while chanting sacred hymns and mantras. It is believed that paying homage to the Sun god on this day bestows divine blessings and ensures success and prosperity in life.
Muhurat (Auspicious Timings)
The auspicious timings for performing rituals and ceremonies during Mesh Sankranti vary depending on the geographical location and the alignment of celestial bodies. However, certain muhurat timings are considered universally auspicious for conducting important activities:
- Sunrise: The period around sunrise is highly auspicious for taking a holy bath and offering prayers to the Sun god.
- Abhijit Muhurat: The Abhijit Muhurat, a time period of approximately 48 minutes around midday, is considered highly auspicious for commencing new ventures and performing religious rituals.
- Sankranti Moment: The exact moment when the Sun enters the Mesh Rashi is considered highly auspicious for performing rituals and offering prayers.
Significance of Mesh Sankranti
Mesh Sankranti holds immense spiritual significance in Hindu mythology and astrology. It marks the beginning of the spring season (Vasant Ritu) and symbolizes new beginnings, growth, and prosperity. According to Hindu beliefs, Mesh Sankranti is also associated with the end of Kharmas, a period considered inauspicious for initiating new ventures or ceremonies.
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