The newborn in the family has a special connection to Makar Sankranti or Bornahan. It is a joyful Indian occasion to strengthen a child’s immune system. Children between the ages of one and five are treated to a unique ritual called Bor (berries) Nahan (bath), which translates to berry bath. Different regions celebrate the event differently, with colourful decorations, children visiting houses and singing, meals (fest), kite flying, etc.
Makar Sankranti is one of the few traditional Indian festivities that follow the solar cycle. It is devoted to the god Surya (sun). In Maharashtra, this event signifies the beginning of harvest, annually observed in January. It is the first day of the sun’s passage through Makara (Capricorn), which signals the end of the season with the winter solstice and the beginning of longer days.
This year Makar Sankranti is being celebrated on January 14 and January 15 because the sun enters the Capricorn zodiac at 8.21 pm on January 14, 2023.
Motive behind Bor Nahan
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In Bor Nahan, the child is bathed with seasonal foods, including groundnuts, summer-like berries, and sugarcane pieces. Children typically do not consume these fruits. However, if children are asked to pick these fruits and drink them during this entertaining activity, they voluntarily comply.
- The practice of Bor Nahan is thought to keep evil from children.
- This concept is followed to ensure the child’s health. Bor Nahan has been completed to shield the children from the changing seasons.
Item required for Bor Nahan
Bor nahan does not require a lot of preparation. Invitees to Bor Nahan include a neighbour’s close family, friends, and small children. Of course, that kid is dressed in all-black clothing with traditional halwyache dagine.
Black attire
The kids are dressed up in black attires in this ritual.
Halwyache dagine
It means jewellery consisting of candies made from sabudana, roasted sesame seeds, and sugar. In some households, it has been made by grandmothers and mothers. However, you can buy this online or from a nearby market.
Aukshan plate
A lighted lamp is waved in front of kids during the practice known as Aukshan. For Aukshan, a plate is needed with unbroken rice grains retained in the middle. As a result, the lamp was placed closer, in front of the unharmed rice grains. It is set with a vermilion gold ring on the right, turmeric powder, and betel nuts on the left.
Bornahan decoration ideas at home
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On the brighter side, greet the New Year with the most fabulous Bornahan decoration ideas at home that we have hand picked for you. Also, whenever your loved ones visit you on this critical day, greet them with the appropriate Makar Sankranti house decorations. The latest Bornahan decoration ideas at home based on various budgets are listed here.
Rangoli art
Get creative and make some colourful Rangoli art as your main Bornahan decoration ideas at home to welcome guests, whether it be the entry to your puja room or the entrance to your home. Of course, if you are not skilled, you may always utilise artificial/acrylic rangoli stickers or even floor murals, which are readily accessible at any store or online.
Lighting
Any festival’s lights serve as a sign of optimism, light, and the dispersal of evil. So why not include them in your Bornahan decoration ideas at home by employing either the traditional route or the classic earthen oil lamps, also known as the diyas?
Indoor lanterns
However, paper lanterns offer the ideal aesthetic and provide a quick way to infuse the room with charm. Numerous lamps, such as those created from plastic bottles, egg cartons, doily lights, and seashell lights, can be used. In addition, you can make recycled lanterns out of old sauce and jam jars by filling them with water, a few flower petals, and floating candles to add a finishing touch. Finally, you can use levitating lanterns as ceiling decorations to fill your home with cheer. Bring a smile to everyone’s face with these Bornahan decoration ideas at home.
Draping
Using drapes as décor for Bornahan is a good choice if you are on a tight budget. You might use curtains, dupattas, sarees, or any other substantial and eye-catching piece of cloth. The fabric could be a background for religious ceremonies or picture shoots.
Kites
What easier way to get ready for the holiday season than to involve the entire family in your Makar Sankranti décor ideas? Encourage everyone to get creative and make some beautiful kites. They might have intriguing designs like kites, butterflies, flowers, or even family initials. These kites could be made as wall decorations. Everyone will have a memorable Makar Sankranti with the help of these Bornahan decoration ideas at home.
Flower trails
Flowers are suitable for all celebrations. Marigold flowers are conveniently offered in the marketplace. You can sprinkle these flowers over the table or string them together to beautify your home.
Dining
The foods that are cooked during Bornahan are what people remember the most. Another consideration is how to serve them in style. It should be considered while designing your home’s interior design. Your home’s dining table needs to appear formal for the occasion. Make sure that sweets and refreshments are thoughtfully arranged, possibly in platters or containers with silver or gold plating. Support the appearance with striking candle holders.
Balloons
It can be a joyful option to decorate your home with. For example, balloons can be set in the children’s playroom and the living area.
Conclusion
Bornahan is an auspicious Hindu festival that is associated with kids. In our hectic lives, it is easy to disregard all customs and move on, but Bornahan is more than simply a ritual; it’s a way of life that we cultivate with our loved ones and children. With these incredible suggestions, you and your family will have a blast on the festival day while getting ready for it. Try these Bornahan decoration ideas at home this year.
FAQs
What is the significance of Bor Nahan?
The newborn is blessed and showered with abundance during the celebration of Bor Nahan.
When is Bor Nahan observed?
During the Makar Sankranti season, people celebrate Bor Nahan, which runs from Makar Sankranti to Ratha Saptami.
Do Hindus only celebrate Bor Nahan?
Although it is a Hindu celebration, India is a very diverse country in terms of culture. Hence there is no discrimination between festivals
Up to what age can kids participate in Bornahan?
Children up to five years can participate in Bornahan.
Why do kids have to wear black clothes on Bornahan?
Makar Sankranti, the solstice's final day, is considered the coldest day of winter. Unlike other colors, black is a color that completely absorbs heat. Therefore, it is picked to stay warm on a chilly winter day.
