Til gul, or sesame seeds and jaggery, holds cultural significance in the celebration of Makar Sankranti, especially in the western Indian state of Maharashtra. Makar Sankranti is a festival that marks the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makar). It usually falls on January 14th, and the festival is celebrated with various customs and traditions across India.
The consumption of til gul during Makar Sankranti is associated with several cultural and symbolic meanings (Importance of til gul on makar sankranti, why do we eat on makar sankranti:
Symbol of Unity and Goodwill: Til gul is often exchanged among people during Makar Sankranti as a gesture of goodwill and to strengthen bonds. The phrase "Til gul ghya, god god bola" is commonly used, which means "Take til gul and speak sweet words."
Warding off Evil: Sesame seeds are believed to have purifying properties, and jaggery is associated with sweetness. Consuming til gul is thought to help purify the body and ward off evil.
Nutritional Benefits: Sesame seeds are rich in nutrients and provide warmth to the body during the winter season. Jaggery, made from concentrated sugarcane juice, is also rich in iron and other minerals. Consuming til gul is seen as a way to enhance the nutritional intake during the festival.
Agricultural Significance: Makar Sankranti is also considered a harvest festival. Sesame seeds and jaggery are common agricultural products, and their consumption during this time may symbolize the celebration of a good harvest.
Sun Worship: The festival marks the sun's movement into the northern hemisphere, and sesame seeds are believed to have a connection with the sun. The sun is considered a symbol of divinity and energy.
It's important to note that customs and traditions associated with festivals can vary across regions and communities, so the significance of til gul during Makar Sankranti may be interpreted differently in different parts of India.
Comments