In the vibrant tapestry of Indian festivals, Makar Sankranti stands out as a celebration of new beginnings, harvest, and the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn. Known by various names across different regions of India, it is a festival that brings together communities in a spirit of joy, gratitude, and togetherness. One of the central elements of Makar Sankranti festivities is the exchange of tilgul, accompanied by the cheerful chant, “Tilgul ghya, god god bola,” which translates to “Accept this tilgul and speak sweetly.”
Origins and Significance
Makar Sankranti marks the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer days. It holds immense cultural and spiritual significance in various parts of India. In Maharashtra and parts of Gujarat, the day is observed with great enthusiasm and is often referred to as Tilgul or Tilgul Poli day. The term ’tilgul’ refers to sweets made from sesame seeds and jaggery, and ‘poli’ denotes a flatbread made of wheat flour.
According to Hindu mythology, this day is considered auspicious for beginning new ventures and seeking blessings for a prosperous future. The exchange of tilgul during Makar Sankranti symbolizes the sweetening of relationships and the spreading of sweetness in life.
Tilgul: A Culinary Delight
Central to the celebration of Makar Sankranti is the preparation and sharing of tilgul, which holds deep culinary and cultural significance. Tilgul is made by mixing sesame seeds with jaggery, creating a sweet treat that is both nutritious and delicious. Sesame seeds, or ’til,’ are known for their high nutritional value, being rich in protein, healthy fats, and essential minerals. Jaggery, made from sugarcane juice or date palm sap, adds sweetness and is considered healthier than refined sugar due to its natural processing.
The process of making tilgul involves roasting sesame seeds until they turn golden brown and then mixing them with molten jaggery. The mixture is then shaped into small, bite-sized balls or pressed into molds to form various shapes. The end result is a confectionery that delights the taste buds with its nutty crunch and rich sweetness.
Rituals and Traditions
On Makar Sankranti morning, families gather on their rooftops or open spaces to offer prayers to the sun god. They perform rituals such as offering water to the sun, lighting lamps, and decorating the house with flowers and rangoli patterns. Post the rituals, people exchange tilgul along with pieces of sugarcane and greet each other with the traditional saying, “Tilgul ghya, god god bola.”
The exchange of tilgul is not merely a culinary exchange but a gesture of goodwill, symbolizing the desire for sweetness and harmony in relationships. It is believed that by offering tilgul, one seeks forgiveness for past misunderstandings and promises to speak and hear only sweet words in the future.
Regional Variations
While tilgul holds special significance in Maharashtra and parts of Gujarat, similar traditions are observed across India with variations in ingredients and preparations. In Punjab, Makar Sankranti is celebrated as Lohri, where sweets made of sesame seeds, jaggery, and peanuts are exchanged among friends and family. In Karnataka, the festival is known as Sankranti or Pongal, and people prepare a dish called ‘ellu bella,’ which consists of sesame seeds, jaggery, coconut, and peanuts mixed together.
Each region brings its unique flavors and customs to the celebration while upholding the spirit of gratitude, joy, and unity that Makar Sankranti embodies.
Symbolism of Tilgul
Beyond its culinary appeal, tilgul holds deep symbolism in Indian culture. The combination of sesame seeds and jaggery signifies the blending of bitterness and sweetness in life. It reminds people that life is a mix of challenges (represented by sesame seeds’ bitterness) and joys (represented by the sweetness of jaggery). By offering and sharing tilgul, individuals acknowledge the complexities of life and commit to facing them with resilience and optimism.
The circular shape of tilgul balls symbolizes the cyclical nature of life, with no beginning and no end. It reflects the belief in continuity and the eternal cycle of birth, death, and rebirth.
Modern Celebrations and Community Spirit
In contemporary times, Makar Sankranti celebrations have evolved to include community gatherings, kite-flying competitions, and cultural programs. These festivities bring people together, fostering a sense of unity and belonging. It is a time when families reconnect with their roots, pass down traditional recipes, and create cherished memories with loved ones.
Moreover, the significance of tilgul extends beyond its role as a festive sweet. With growing awareness of health and nutrition, tilgul has found its place as a wholesome snack that provides energy and essential nutrients. Its natural ingredients make it a preferred choice over commercially processed sweets, aligning with modern dietary preferences.
Conclusion
Makar Sankranti, with its joyful proclamation of “Tilgul kha, god god bola,” encapsulates the essence of Indian culture – unity in diversity, resilience in adversity, and sweetness in relationships. The exchange of tilgul transcends culinary boundaries to become a gesture of goodwill, kindness, and forgiveness. As we celebrate this auspicious festival, let us embrace the spirit of tilgul, remembering to share sweetness with everyone we meet and to greet each other with words that are as sweet as the tilgul itself.
In essence, Makar Sankranti and its tradition of tilgul exemplify the timeless values of love, respect, and harmony that resonate across generations, making it a truly cherished festival in the tapestry of Indian heritage.