Amid the kite-flying frenzy and sweet feasts of Makar Sankranti lies a hidden gem: a temple where Surya Bhagwan himself crowns Shiva with a tilak of light, visible just once yearly.
Tucked away in Almora, Uttarakhand, the Arkeshwar Mahadev Temple perches dramatically on a ridge, its shikhara piercing the clouds. On this harvest festival day marking winter solstice’s end, the sun rises at a precise angle. Rays stream 200 meters through a narrow crevice, landing squarely on the crystal-embedded Shiva Lingam, igniting a sparkling ‘rajtilak.’ The sight, lasting mere minutes, leaves beholders spellbound.
Preparations are a spectacle unto themselves. Trails light up with diyas; sadhus from afar converge. Offerings include fresh tilak from sunflower seeds, symbolic of solar energy. Chants invoke ‘Om Namah Shivaya’ as the miracle unfolds, captured in viral videos yearly.
Architectural genius underpins the magic. Medieval stone alignments, corroborated by ISRO satellite data, prove intentional design. Legends speak of Shiva meditating here during samudra manthan, later frequented by solar deities.
This Makar Sankranti, over 55,000 braved -5°C temps, boosting local economy via homestays and crafts. Environmental pledges accompanied vows, with tree-planting drives. Globally, it’s touted as a must-see astro-spiritual site.
As Uttarayan begins, symbolizing prosperity, this ritual encapsulates hope. In a fast world, Arkeshwar offers pause—a divine drama scripted by stars, reminding us of rhythms beyond our control, yet perfectly in sync with devotion.