Why Til are considered important on Makar Sankranti
Sesame seeds, commonly known as til in Hindi and Ellu in various South Indian languages, are often termed as the seed of immortality in Hinduism and one can find the mention of these tiny seeds in Vedas as well. It is said that til is one of the important ingredients that’s used in funeral rituals. The ritual is known as Til Tarpanam, and it is said that without these tiny seeds the whole ritual is incomplete. Also, the winter season is synonymous with these tiny seeds as they have a hot potency and can keep you warm during the cold. Read more to know about the origin and why these seeds are considered important in Hinduism. (Images courtesy: iStock)
Importance in Hinduism
We all know by now that til is considered an important ingredient for funeral rituals. But, do you know, there are so many other uses for sesame seeds in Hinduism? Sesame oil or Til ka tel is considered one of the purest oils to use for lighting the Diya or the lamps in the temples. For the same reason, many Pandits use this oil for performing various havans. It is also said that using til ka tel can reduce the ill effects of malignant planets like Rahu and get the benefits of favourable planets. Astrologers also believe, if a person is affected by the bad effect of Saturn then one should use this oil daily in their Puja rituals.
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Significance of Til on Makar Sankranti
Dedicated to the Sun Lord, Makar Sankranti is an important festival that marks the beginning of all the festivals. It’s a harvest festival that’s celebrated across the country and is known by several names such as Pongal, Lohri, Bihu, and Maghi. It is said that from this day itself, the weather starts shifting and becomes warmer day by day. Sesame seeds are said to be closely associated with this day and for the same reason, the festival is also known as Til Sankranti. The main reason for its significance with this day is that sesame seeds are said to be blessed by Lord Yama or the God of Death and this is why they are known as the ‘seeds of immortality’. On the occasion of Makar Sankranti, it is advised that one should give away black sesame seeds in the temples to ward off the ill effects of Saturn or Rahu. Also, one should consume Til Ke Laddoo, which is made with jaggery and white sesame seeds. In Maharashtra, people distribute and exchange these laddoos with the saying that “Forget the past and say sweet words” like a renewal of friendship.
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