Science Of Indian Festivities- A Reflection!

If we look deeper, contemplate , we realize that every Indian festival and custom manifests time tested logical conclusions. We gradually begin to understand that these are not mere rituals , rather scientific sustainable practices, which present themselves in conjugation with the laws of mother nature

Sankranti, for example,  marks the first harvest season for farmers. When one simply starts to analyze the cause and effect, the co-relation and multiple connections between various factors become evident  , also emphasizing the fact of oneness in universal laws. Like the start of a new year as per English calendar , pleasantly coincides with Sankranti ( both events, defining the concept of new beginnings and a new start in two different cultures). This provides an interesting insight to the fact that, diverse events can come together at the same point of time, to validate common universal laws , hence driving humanity to collectively embrace the spirit of togetherness and mark the onset of a fresh year filled with fresh perspectives ), beautiful isn’t it ? 

Our customs provide a hands on approach to sustainability, aligned perfectly with nature , seasonal produce and health requirements. Sankranti,  which is celebrated to mark the end of winter, in the month of January in almost all states of India , is also the blissful time for the production of  high quality jaggery and sesame along with bountiful harvest crops.

In Bengal , Orissa , Southern states and many other parts of India, rice  is combined with jaggery and coconut to make sweet steamed dumplings through the season ( also called Pithe ).
Lohri is celebrated in Punjab and Northern states by lighting a bonfire ( to welcome longer days and sort of ward off the old and welcome the new ) .The bonfire is amply fueled with grand food festivities and delicacies, created with winter produce like Makki( Corn ), Til( Sesame) and Sarson ( Mustard) from the lush green fields . On the whole , Sankranti truly is a divine moment of honoring and paying homage to our farmers .

By consuming seasonal produce, we adhere to the norms of the nature and practice good health ethics. Hence, even with an array of rich delicacies, our digestive system is seamlessly programmed and processed to handle any overload. This is the magic of mother nature which calls out for " Think global but eat seasonal and local".

Just a piece of relevance I reflected upon, joined a few dots and thought of sharing .On that note I wish you all a very happy new year , a very happy and blessed Makar Sankranti