On the day of Sankranti, which is a festival marking the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makara), cows are worshipped in many parts of India. This tradition is particularly prevalent in rural areas where agriculture is the mainstay of life. The cow is considered a sacred animal in Hinduism and is associated with prosperity and wealth. Here are some reasons why cows are worshipped on Sankranti:

• Agricultural Significance: Cows are integral to farming as they provide milk, and their dung is used as a natural fertilizer. The ploughing of fields is also traditionally done with the help of oxen, which are male cattle.
• Religious Importance: In Hindu mythology, the cow is associated with various deities, such as Lord Krishna, who is often depicted playing his flute amongst cows. The cow is also considered a symbol of the Earth for its nurturing nature.
• Gratitude and Prosperity: Farmers worship cows on Sankranti to express gratitude for their contributions to agriculture and to seek blessings for a good harvest in the coming season.
• Cultural Practices: Various rituals, such as decorating cows with colors and garlands, taking them in processions, and feeding them special meals, are performed to honor them on this day.

Thus, cow worship on Sankranti is a way to honor the significance of cattle in agriculture and to invoke blessings for prosperity and abundance.