What is Sankranti ?
Sankranti is the transition of the sun from one zodiac sign to another. Karka Sankranti marks the beginning of the southern journey i.e, Dakshinayana of Lord Surya begins with this day and prevails for six months. The day also often coincides with Dev Shayani Ekadashi. It is said that the Hindu deity, especially lord Vishnu, goes to sleep for four months and hence, all the auspicious rituals like wedding ceremonies, janeu sanskar and others are restricted during this period.
Worshippers offer fast on this day and worship Lord Vishnu to seek blessings.
Rituals in Karka Sankranti
The worshippers start their day by taking a holy bath along with worshipping Lord Surya and Chanting Surya Mantra. Lord Vishnu is the main attention of devotees to worship in order to seek peace and fortune.On this occasion the devotees engage in doing charity and donating grains,oil and other essential things.One must avoid starting new things on this day as the day is not considered auspicious.
Significance of Karka Sankranti
From Karka Sankranti the monsoon starts.Uttarayan ends on this day and Dakshinayana begins. Worshipping Lord Vishnu and observing fast on this day relieve the devotees from all the bad aspects of life. Karka Sankranti is the most favourable time for those who wish to perform Pitru Tarpan for their ancestors to offer peace to the departed souls.
