Makar Sankranti is a celebration of the sun's transition into the Capricorn zodiac, marking the start of longer days. In India, festivals are intricately linked with the changing seasons, and they carry significant scientific value, especially in the foods prepared for these occasions. Makar Sankranti falls during the winter season, known as "Shishir Ritu," and the foods associated with this festival are designed to suit the climate and provide necessary nourishment.
One of the key ingredients in the sweets made for Makar Sankranti celebrations is sesame (til) and jaggery (gul). The combination of til and jaggery helps generate warmth in the body, which is particularly beneficial during colder months. Jaggery has the ability to regulate body temperature, promoting warmth and comfort. It also aids digestion, relieves constipation, and is rich in antioxidants, which help reduce stress and increase hemoglobin levels.
Til and jaggery together promote healthy digestion by improving appetite, assimilation, and absorption in the intestines, thus enhancing gut health. Unfortunately, in today's world, these natural ingredients are often replaced with artificially colored and processed sugar balls. These sugar balls, often brightly colored and appealing to children, are loaded with unhealthy sugars and chemicals, which are far from the wholesome, healthful treat that our ancestors intended when they coined the phrase "til gul ghya, god god bola" — meaning "eat til and gul, and speak sweetly." This phrase suggests that consuming the nutritious combination of sesame and jaggery promotes good health and leads to a happy, healthy individual who speaks kind words as his gut is smiling.
This Makar Sankranti, let us take a small but meaningful step toward healthier traditions. Instead of distributing sugary, artificially colored balls, let’s go back to the roots and offer til and gul. This simple change can help promote better health, especially for children, who are often drawn to these processed sugary treats. By choosing natural ingredients over processed ones, we can contribute to improving gut health during festive season and overall well-being.
- Let’s pledge this Makar Sankranti to spread good health and smiles. Wishing everyone a joyful and healthy Makar Sankranti!
