Known by different names such as Makar Sankranti, Lohri, Uttarayana, and Pongal, this harvest festival is celebrated across India with immense joy and devotion. It marks the beginning of the harvest season, when freshly harvested crops are worshipped, shared, and enjoyed with family and community.
Among all the Sankrantis observed during the year, Makar Sankranti holds special significance. According to the Hindu calendar, there are twelve Sankrantis annually, but Makar Sankranti is considered the most auspicious. It is also mentioned with reverence in sacred Hindu texts such as the Bhagavad Gita and the Mahabharata.
Importance of Til (Sesame Seeds)
During Makar Sankranti, sesame seeds — commonly known as Til or Teel — are highly revered. They are consumed in various traditional sweets and are also donated as daan (charity), symbolizing purity, prosperity, and spiritual merit.
According to Hindu mythology, Yama blessed sesame seeds, granting them the status of a symbol of immortality. Another belief states that sesame seeds originated from the sweat droplets of Vishnu that fell upon the earth, making them sacred and auspicious.
Why is Til So Valuable?
Though tiny in size, sesame seeds are packed with nutrition and health benefits. According to nutrition experts, sesame is rich in:
- Calcium
- Iron
- Magnesium
- Phosphorus
- Zinc
- Copper
- Fiber
- Protein
- Healthy oils
- Vitamin B6 and Folate
Til is one of the oldest known oilseeds in human history and has been used in rituals, medicines, and traditional foods since ancient times.
Health Benefits of Sesame Seeds
Supports Digestion
Sesame seeds are rich in dietary fiber, which helps maintain a healthy digestive system and supports proper intestinal function.
Good for Bone Health
High levels of calcium and zinc help strengthen bones and maintain bone density.
Helps Heart Health
Sesame contains oleic acid, a healthy monounsaturated fat that helps reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) and increase good cholesterol (HDL).
Rich Source of Protein
Being protein-rich, sesame seeds are especially beneficial for vegetarians.
Helps in Arthritis Relief
The copper and antioxidants present in sesame may help reduce pain and swelling associated with arthritis.
Beneficial for Respiratory Health
Magnesium found in sesame seeds is believed to provide relief from respiratory issues such as asthma.
Cultural and Spiritual Significance
Til is considered a symbol of warmth and energy during the winter season. Traditional foods like Tilgul, Til laddoo, and sesame-jaggery sweets are prepared because they provide heat and nourishment to the body during cold weather.
The act of sharing sesame sweets during Makar Sankranti also symbolizes harmony, goodwill, and sweetness in relationships. In many parts of India, people exchange sweets and say words that encourage forgetting bitterness and speaking kindly.
Thus, sesame seeds are not only nutritionally powerful but also deeply rooted in Indian culture, spirituality, and seasonal traditions.
