Makar Sankranti 2026: Date, Snan Muhurat, and Spiritual Significance
Makar Sankranti is one of the most ancient and auspicious festivals in the Hindu calendar. Dedicated to Lord Surya (the Sun God), it marks the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makara). In 2026, Makar Sankranti will be celebrated with immense devotion across India. Unlike most Hindu festivals that follow the lunar cycle, Makar Sankranti follows the solar cycle, making it fall on almost the same date every year. It signifies the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer, warmer days.
Makar Sankranti 2026 Date and Auspicious Timing:
In 2026, Makar Sankranti will be celebrated on January 14, Wednesday.
- Makar Sankranti Punya Kaal: 07:15 AM to 05:46 PM
- Maha Punya Kaal: 07:15 AM to 09:00 AM Taking a holy dip (Snan) during the Maha Punya Kaal is considered highly meritorious, as it is believed to wash away past sins and bring spiritual liberation.
The Science and Geography Behind Makar Sankranti
While it is a religious festival, Makar Sankranti has a profound scientific basis. It marks the Uttarayan movement of the Sun—the northward journey. Geographically, it is the day when the Sun enters the Tropic of Capricorn. For farmers, this period marks the end of a harsh winter and the ripening of the Rabi crops, leading to a season of abundance.
Historical and Mythological Origins
There are several legends associated with Makar Sankranti:
- Visit to Lord Shani: It is believed that on this day, Lord Surya visits his son, Lord Shani (the ruler of Capricorn). Despite their differences, this visit symbolizes the importance of family bonds and forgiveness.
- The Victory of Lord Vishnu: Another legend states that Lord Vishnu defeated the Asuras (demons) on this day and buried their heads under the Mandar Parvat, symbolizing the victory of righteousness over evil.
- Bhishma Pitamah: In the Mahabharata, Bhishma Pitamah waited for the Sun to enter Uttarayan to leave his mortal body, as it is believed that those who die during this period attain Moksha (salvation).
Makar Sankranti 2026: Key Information
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Date | January 14, 2026 |
| Day | Wednesday |
| Deity | Lord Surya (Sun God) |
| Significance | Transition of Sun into Capricorn |
| Key Rituals | Holy Bath (Snan), Charity (Daan), Kite Flying |
| Special Food | Til-Gur Laddoo, Khichdi, Pitha |
Regional Flavors: One Festival, Many Names
Makar Sankranti is a pan-Indian festival, but it is celebrated with different names and local customs:
- Poush Sankranti (West Bengal): Bengalis celebrate this by making various types of ‘Pitha’ (rice cakes) and taking a holy dip at Ganga Sagar.
- Pongal (Tamil Nadu): A four-day harvest festival where people boil the first rice of the season in pots.
- Uttarayan (Gujarat): Famous for the International Kite Festival where the sky is filled with thousands of colorful kites.
- Magh Bihu (Assam): People build huts called ‘Mejis’ and enjoy community feasts.
- Maghi (Punjab): Celebrated with great fervor after Lohri, featuring traditional dances and feasts.
The Tradition of Kite Flying
Why do we fly kites on Makar Sankranti? Apart from the fun, there is a health reason. Kite flying usually takes place in the early morning sun. After a long winter, the morning sun rays are healthy for the body, providing Vitamin D and clearing skin infections. Over time, it became a competitive sport and a symbol of reaching new heights.
Culinary Traditions: Til and Khichdi
Food plays a vital role in Makar Sankranti.
- Til-Gur (Sesame and Jaggery): People exchange sweets made of Til and Gur, saying “Til-gul ghya, goad-goad bola” (Eat til-gul and speak sweet words). Sesame provides warmth, and jaggery is a healthy sweetener for the winter.
- Khichdi: In many parts of North India, this day is also known as ‘Khichdi’. Donating and eating Khichdi (a mix of rice and lentils) is considered very auspicious.
- Pitha: In West Bengal, the smell of Nolen Gur (date palm jaggery) and Pousha Pitha fills every household.
Spiritual Significance of Charity (Daan)
Donation is a core part of Makar Sankranti. People donate blankets, warm clothes, food grains, and sesame to the needy. It is believed that ‘Daan’ performed on this day returns manifold to the donor in the form of health and wealth.
5 Tips for Celebrating Makar Sankranti 2026
- Early Morning Snan: If you can’t visit a holy river, add some black sesame seeds and Ganga Jal to your bath water at home.
- Surya Arghya: Offer water to the Sun God in a copper vessel while chanting the Surya Mantra.
- Sustainable Kites: Use paper kites instead of plastic and avoid ‘Manjha’ (glass-coated string) that can harm birds.
- Prepare Pitha: Try your hand at making traditional Bengali Pitha or Til-Laddoo to keep the culinary heritage alive.
- Social Work: Visit an orphanage or old age home to distribute sweets and warm clothes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Why is Makar Sankranti celebrated on January 14? It follows the solar calendar. Every 70 to 80 years, the date shifts by one day due to the precision of equinoxes, but for the current century, it mostly falls on Jan 14 or 15.
- Is Makar Sankranti a bank holiday in 2026? In many states like West Bengal, Gujarat, and Karnataka, it is a state holiday. Check your local holiday list for bank closures.
- What should one avoid on this day? Tradition suggests avoiding non-vegetarian food and harsh speech on this holy day.
Conclusion:
Makar Sankranti 2026 is a celebration of the harmony between man, nature, and the cosmos. As the sun begins its journey northward, let us also move toward positivity, kindness, and spiritual growth. Whether you are flying kites in Gujarat or eating Pitha in West Bengal, the essence of the festival remains the same—gratitude and new beginnings.