Paus Sankranti

Paus Sankranti a Hindu festival, also known as pausparvan or makar sankranti (marking the transition of the sun from Sagittarius to Capricorn, in Magh). It is commonly believed that a dip in the Ganges on this day washes away all sins. It is also the time to begin the vow of dadhi sankranti. In some areas it is the time for a new crop festival marked by making cakes in every home.

During Paus Sankranti, Hindus recite rhymes to announce the return of the month of Paus and to wish everyone's well-being. On this occasion a sheaf of paddy is tied to a pole of the house. In Bangladesh people observe the day by respecting the dwelling place. For the occasion a crocodile, made of earth, is placed on a raised platform and worshipped. rabindranath tagore introduced Paus festival at Santiniketan to mark the harvesting of winter crop. [Suresh Chandra Banerjee]