Kathmandu: Maghe Sankranti, also known as Makar Sankranti, is being celebrated nationwide today. The festival is marked by taking holy dips in rivers and ponds, worshipping at temples, and enjoying traditional delicacies such as ghee, yam, khichadi, chaku, and sesame-based sweets.

Maghe Sankranti holds special significance in astrology as it symbolizes the sun's transition into the northern hemisphere, marking longer days and shorter nights. The day is believed to bring spiritual blessings and physical well-being when observed with rituals, as mentioned in religious texts like Bhabisya Puran and Dharma Sindhu.

Observances Across Communities
The Newar community celebrates the festival as Ghyo Chaku Sallnhu, where elders apply warm edible oil on the heads of younger family members while consuming traditional foods. The Tharu and Magar communities observe the day as Maghi, their New Year, with vibrant celebrations. Similarly, people in the Tarai districts mark the day as Nahan, the festival of baths.

Devotees throng sacred sites like Devghat, Barahchhetra, Ridi, Panauti, and Dolalghat in Nepal, as well as Prayag and Gangasagar in India, to perform holy baths and rituals. In Bhaktapur, the festival is observed with a special puja of Deepakankar Buddha at the Tilmadhav Narayan Temple in Taumadhi Tole.

Health and Cultural Significance
The foods consumed during Maghe Sankranti, such as sesame and molasses-based sweets, are recognized for their health benefits, including boosting immunity. Ayurveda and medical science advocate the nutritional value of these traditional delicacies.

President’s Message
President Ramchandra Paudel extended his best wishes to all Nepalis, emphasizing the festival's role in fostering unity, harmony, and mutual reconciliation. He highlighted the importance of such festivals in promoting Nepal's cultural identity and strengthening national unity.

The government has declared a public holiday today to honor the significance of Maghe Sankranti/Maghi, ensuring all communities can celebrate their traditions and rituals with joy and respect.