Toms River, New Jersey— Over 150 members of the Bihari and Jharkhand diaspora celebrate Makar Sankranti at Shri Siddhivinayak Temple on January 18, 2026. The Bihar Jharkhand Association of North America (BJANA) collaborated with Bihar Foundation USA, despite heavy snowfall across New Jersey.
Markar Sankranti marks the sun's northward journey and is believed to symbolize new beginnings, harvest blessings, and gratitude.
Established in 1975, BJANA operates as a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization serving the Bihar and Jharkhand communities across New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut.
Key Facts
• More than 150 community members gathered at Shri Siddhivinayak Temple, located at 1916 Lakewood Road, Toms River, New Jersey, on January 18, 2026
• BJANA collaborated with Bihar Foundation USA to organize the event
• The celebration proceeded despite adverse weather conditions, including heavy snowfall across multiple New Jersey regions
Community members gathered to participate in traditional prayers, rituals, and social activities centered around this auspicious festival.
Makar Sankranti is deeply rooted in Bihar and Jharkhand traditions, making its celebration particularly meaningful for diaspora communities maintaining ties to their homeland.
The Bihar Jharkhand Association continues to strengthen social and cultural connections through various initiatives, including cultural events, social gatherings, educational programs, and community outreach.
BJANA membership remains free, welcoming individuals seeking connection to their Bihar and Jharkhand heritage.
The organization remains committed to celebrating festivals and fostering community spirit throughout the year.
BJANA announced in their event invitation, emphasizing community participation and collective joy.
Do You Know?
Markar Sankranti is celebrated across India with regional variations—in Punjab it's called Lohri, in Tamil Nadu it's Pongal, and in Bengal it's Makar Sankranti. The festival traditionally involves flying colorful kites, exchanging sweets, and taking ceremonial baths in holy rivers.
Key Terms
• Makar Sankranti: A Hindu festival marking the sun's northward journey, celebrated in mid-January across India, symbolizing new beginnings and harvest blessings
• Diaspora: Communities of people with shared heritage living outside their ancestral homeland, maintaining cultural and social connections
• BJANA (Bihar Jharkhand Association of North America): A non-profit 501(c)(3) organization serving Bihar and Jharkhand communities in the northeastern United States
• Shri Siddhivinayak Temple: A Hindu place of worship located in Toms River, New Jersey, serving the local Hindu community
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