Simha Sakranti

Simha Sakranti, also known as Simha Sankranti or Singh Sankranti, is a Hindu festival that marks the transition of the Sun into the Leo zodiac sign (Simha in Sanskrit). It is observed on the day when the Sun moves from the Cancer zodiac sign to the Leo zodiac sign, which typically falls around July 16th each year.

Like other Sankranti festivals in Hinduism, Simha Sakranti holds religious significance, and people celebrate it with various rituals, prayers, and offerings. It marks an important time astrologically and is often associated with spiritual practices and auspicious beginnings.

Story Behind Simha Sankranti

The story behind Simha Sankranti is rooted in Hindu mythology and the significance of the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign of Leo (Simha). According to ancient texts and legends, there are various interpretations and stories associated with this occasion:

1. Astrological Significance: Simha Sankranti marks the Sun's movement from the Cancer zodiac sign to the Leo zodiac sign. In Hindu astrology, each zodiac sign is associated with specific qualities and energies, and this transition is considered auspicious.

2. Spiritual Significance: In Hindu tradition, the Sun is not just a physical celestial body but also a symbol of enlightenment, consciousness, and the soul. The transition during Sankranti periods is believed to hold spiritual significance, signaling a shift in energies and offering opportunities for spiritual growth and renewal.

3. Mythological Stories: While specific narratives vary across different regions of India, some stories from Hindu mythology also highlight the importance of this transition. For instance:

In some versions, it is believed that Lord Vishnu, in his Narasimha avatar (half-man, half-lion form), defeated the demon Hiranyakashipu on this day, thereby restoring balance and dharma (righteousness) in the world.

Another legend associates this day with the worship of Sun god (Surya), highlighting the Sun's power and role in sustaining life on Earth.

4. Celebrations and Rituals: During Simha Sankranti, people perform rituals such as taking holy baths in rivers (especially the Ganges), offering prayers to the Sun god, and making charitable donations. These rituals are believed to cleanse one's sins and bring blessings for prosperity and well-being.

5. Cultural Observances: In regions like Odisha, people celebrate Simha Sankranti with cultural events, feasts, and fairs. It is a time for communities to come together, exchange greetings, and participate in traditional dances and music.

What to do on Simha Sankranti:-

Chant The Mantras of Lord Sun: – Lord Sun (Surya) is the source of Energy for the whole universe. By doing Mantra recitation you will find inner peace, excellence in your career and in your higher studies, promotion in your service, growth in your finance etc.

Do Prayers for Lord Vishnu: – Lord Vishnu is considered as the preserver of the universe. Doing prayers for Lord Vishnu can grow your career, give stability in your finance, bring prosperity, peace and wisdom.

Perform Simha Sankranti Puja: – This puja helps you to enhance self esteem and self worth. It will provide courage, will power and strength. Its also protects against heart and nerve disorders.