SAN GRAND, sankranti in Sanskrit, is the first day of each month of the Indian solar calendar, based on the shifting of the sun from one house (rasi) to another. From quite early in human history, the sun, and its satellites, the planets, came to be regarded as objects endowed with celestial mind, a definite personality and the capability of influencing the destinies of human beings. They became the deities whose favourable intervention was sought by men in their affairs.
The worship of Surya, the Sun god, was a feature of Vedic times, and it has continued one way or another in the Indian tradition. A popular form has been the observance of Sankranti with ritual performances such as fasts, bathing at holy places and distribution of charity. In the Sikh system, the only object of adoration is the supreme Being. No other deity is acknowledged. In the Sikh metaphor, the Guru is the Sun which illumines the mind of the disciple.
Guru Nanak and Guru Arjan composed Baramahas or calendar poems with stanzas devoted to each of the twelve solar months. Guru Nanak in his poem describes the natural landscape from month to month along with the yearning of the bride (devotee) for God, the Beloved. In Guru Arjan`s stanzas is rendered the mood of the devotees in each month. To quote Guru Nanak : The month of Chet (Chaitra) is marked by Basant (Spring) and blossoming, but the human mind, even in such a season, will not effloresce without union with God achieved through meditation on the Name under the Guru`s instruction.
Guru Arjan in the stanza on Chet observes that meditation on the Name in this month would bring boundless bliss; the Name is received through the grace of the saints ; living without the Name renders life futile and brings suffering. The Lord pervades all existence. Both of them in the end say that each moment, day or month spent in meditation on the Name brings bliss. Besides the Name, no other propitiation or worship will help. But, in course of time, the practice of celebrating the Sangrand (Sankranti) entered the Sikh way of life, if only to provide an occasion for the recitation of one of the Baramahas.
Special divans take place at g^urdwaraswhen Guru Arjan`s Baramahais read in addition to the performance of usual services. Devotees turn up in large numbers and bring offerings, especially of karah prasad. Individuals who cannot join the recitation in gurdwaras, may say the Baramaha privately. In homes where the Holy Book is ceremonially installed special services will be set up to mark the day and families will gather to listen to the Baramaha being recited from Scripture.
San Grand in Hindu Mythology
San Grand, also referred to as Sankranti in Sanskrit, marks the solar transition from one zodiac sign (rasi) to another in the Indian solar calendar. This celestial event holds immense significance in Hindu mythology and tradition, symbolizing the movement of the Sun and its influence on human life and the cosmos.
Mythological Significance:
- The Sun (Surya) has been revered as a deity since Vedic times, embodying vitality, knowledge, and cosmic order. The transition of the Sun during Sankranti is seen as a divine event that impacts the destinies of living beings.
- In Hindu mythology, the Sun’s journey is often linked to the harvest season, prosperity, and renewal. Festivals like Makar Sankranti celebrate the Sun’s northward movement (Uttarayana), symbolizing longer days and spiritual awakening. Rituals and Observances:
- Hindus observe Sankranti with rituals such as bathing in holy rivers, offering prayers to the Sun, and distributing charity. These acts are believed to cleanse sins and bring blessings.
- The day is also marked by festivals, including kite flying, feasts, and community gatherings, emphasizing gratitude for nature’s bounty.
In Sikh tradition, while the focus remains on the One Supreme Being, the metaphor of the Sun is used to describe the Guru’s role in illuminating the mind of the disciple. Guru Nanak and Guru Arjan composed Baramahas (calendar poems) that reflect the spiritual significance of each month, including the solar transitions.
Quotes from Guru Granth Sahib
The Guru Granth Sahib, the eternal scripture of Sikhism, is a treasure trove of spiritual wisdom and guidance. It emphasizes virtues like humility, compassion, and devotion, offering profound insights into leading a meaningful life. Here are some inspirational quotes:
On Equality and Unity:
- “There is one God; His name is Truth. He is the Creator, without fear, without hate, timeless and self-existent.” (Japji Sahib)
- This verse underscores the Sikh belief in the oneness of God and the equality of all beings.
On Detachment and Spiritual Growth:
- “The world is a drama, staged in a dream. Behold it with detachment.” (Guru Granth Sahib, Ang 1429)
- This reminds us to view life’s challenges with a sense of detachment, understanding their transient nature.
On Humility and Forgiveness:
- “Humility is the word, forgiveness is the virtue, and sweet speech is the magic mantra.” (Guru Granth Sahib)
- This highlights the importance of cultivating humility and kindness in daily interactions.
- On Overcoming Illusions:
- “The Lord is within you, and so is Maya (illusion). The wise recognize and subdue it.” (Guru Granth Sahib)
- This verse encourages self-awareness and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment.
On Devotion and Love:
- “In the realm of love, there is no separation. All are one.” (Guru Granth Sahib)
- This reflects the Sikh emphasis on love and unity as the foundation of spiritual practice.
The teachings of the Guru Granth Sahib inspire individuals to lead lives of righteousness, selflessness, and devotion. They serve as a guiding light for those seeking spiritual growth and harmony.
