When the sun moves from one zodiac sign to another, it is called a Sankranti. When this transition of the sun occurs from Sagittarius to Capricorn, it is called Makar Sankranti. On this day, the sun moves from its southward journey (Dakshinayana) to its northward journey (Uttarayana). In Sanatana Dharma, the day of Makar Sankranti holds special significance. Bathing in holy rivers and pilgrimage sites during the auspicious time of this day is considered very beneficial.
Makar Sankranti 2026 Date
Kharmas has already started on December 16th and will continue until January 14th. According to the Hrishikesh Panchang, the sun will enter Capricorn on January 14, 2025, Wednesday, at 9:38 PM. The Brahma Vaivarta Purana states that the auspicious period of Sankranti lasts for 40 ghatis (approximately 16 hours). Therefore, the auspicious time will continue until 1:19 PM on the next day, January 15th, Thursday. During this auspicious period, one should bathe in holy places like Haridwar, Gangasagar, Triveni in Prayagraj, Varanasi, Godavari, etc. Worship of the Sun God: After bathing, the Sun God is worshipped by offering Arghya (water offering). Sesame seeds and jaggery are offered as Prasad (offering). Donate these things after bathing: According to religious beliefs, bathing in the Ganges or any holy river and donating jaggery on this day frees one from all kinds of sins. Donating khichdi, sesame seeds, blankets, and footwear yields countless times the reward of charity. It also brings immense merit. This is why there is a huge crowd of devotees at pilgrimage sites including Kashi, Prayagraj, and Haridwar on this day. Khichdi offering: In North India, there is a tradition of making khichdi and distributing it as Prasad. Troubles will be removed from life: Charity is considered very auspicious. But it is said that donating on the day of Makar Sankranti yields double the reward. On this day, everyone should bathe in the morning and donate to the poor. You can donate whatever you wish.
The winter season begins from today.
Significance of Makar Sankranti
Religious Significance: The Sun God is given great importance in Hinduism. It is believed that on this day, the Sun God visits his son, Shani Dev (Saturn).
Astronomical Significance: According to astronomy, on this day, the sun moves from the southern hemisphere to the northern hemisphere, which means that the days begin to get longer.
Agricultural Significance: This day is very important for farmers, as the crops begin to ripen from this day onwards.
Makar Sankranti in Different States
Makar Sankranti is known by different names and celebrated in different ways in various states of India.
Punjab: Makar Sankranti is known as Maghi or Lohri.
Tamil Nadu: Pongal
Andhra Pradesh: Makar Sankranti
Karnataka: Sankranti
Gujarat: Uttarayan
Makar Sankranti is an important festival of India that holds religious, cultural, and agricultural significance. There are many reasons behind celebrating this festival. Let us all celebrate this festival together with environmental awareness.
The use of plastic kite strings during kite flying on Makar Sankranti is harmful to the environment. Therefore, we should celebrate this festival with environmental consciousness.
Makar Sankranti is an important part of India's cultural heritage. This festival brings people together and strengthens social bonds.
