In the socio-cultural context, Bhogi signifies the shift from which philosophical outlook to another?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
Solution: The correct answer is Tamas (inertia) to Rajas (action).
Explanation:
☛ Bhogi marks the first day of the four-day harvest festival of Makar Sankranti / Pongal, celebrated widely in South India and Maharashtra.
☛ On this day, people discard and burn old, unused household items in a ceremonial bonfire (Bhogi Mantalu).
☛ Symbolically, this bonfire represents shedding past attachments, negativity, and lethargy, transitioning from Tamas (inertia, sloth, darkness) to Rajas (passion, dynamism, action).
☛ This festival is traditionally dedicated to Lord Indra, the god of rain and clouds, praying for agricultural prosperity and abundance.
Extra Exam-Relevant Facts:
☛ Four Days of Pongal: Day 1 is Bhogi Pongal, Day 2 is Surya Pongal, Day 3 is Mattu Pongal (cattle worship), and Day 4 is Kaanum Pongal (family gatherings).
☛ Triguna Concept: According to Indian philosophy, especially the Samkhya school, the universe and human nature consist of three Gunas: Sattva (purity/knowledge), Rajas (action/passion), and Tamas (inertia/ignorance).
☛ Calendar Significance: Bhogi is observed on the last day of the Hindu month of Margazhi (Margashirsha), just before the sun enters Capricorn (Makara).
Important One-Liners for Upcoming Exams:
☛ Which Indian philosophical system propounded the theory of the three Gunas (Sattva, Rajas, Tamas)? → Samkhya Philosophy (founded by Sage Kapila)
☛ What is the ceremonial bonfire lit on the day of Bhogi known as? → Bhogi Mantalu
☛ Which deity is traditionally revered on the day of Bhogi for bountiful rains? → Lord Indra
☛ Which specific day of the Pongal festival is dedicated to honoring and worshipping farm cattle? → Mattu Pongal
☛ Which traditional bull-taming sport is organized in Tamil Nadu during the Pongal festivities? → Jallikattu