Makar Sankranti Date: Makar Sankranti is a highly sacred and joyous festival in Hinduism, considered the first major festival of the new year. It is not only a festival of religious significance but also a celebration connected to social and agricultural aspects. It is celebrated under different names in various parts of the country, such as Makar Sankranti or Khichdi festival in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, Lohri in Punjab and Haryana, Pongal in Tamil Nadu, and Magh Bihu or Bhogali Bihu in Assam. On this day, people worship the Sun God, consume sesame seeds and jaggery, and pray for prosperity in their homes and fields.

Furthermore, Makar Sankranti is also known as an occasion for charity and good deeds. Taking a holy dip and giving alms on this day is considered highly auspicious. Kite flying, festive dishes, and family gatherings make this festival even more special. Let's find out when Makar Sankranti will be celebrated in 2026 and what the most auspicious time for bathing and giving alms is.

Significance of Makar Sankranti

Makar Sankranti is considered a highly sacred festival in Hinduism. On this day, the Sun moves from Sagittarius to Capricorn. Capricorn is considered the sign of Lord Shani (Saturn), and the relationship between Saturn and the Sun is seen as one of enmity between father and son. It is believed that on this day, the Sun visits Saturn's house (Capricorn). This is why Makar Sankranti falls on either January 14th or 15th every year.

Makar Sankranti 2026: Date and Auspicious Time

Date: Wednesday, January 14, 2026
Punya Kaal (Auspicious Time): 02:49 PM to 05:45 PM
Maha Punya Kaal (Most Auspicious Time): 02:49 PM to 03:42 PM

Importance of Bathing and Giving Alms

Taking a holy dip in sacred rivers and offering water to the Sun God on this day is considered highly auspicious. Similarly, donating sesame seeds, jaggery, khichdi, warm clothes, blankets, and food grains is of special significance. It is believed that these virtuous deeds not only earn merit for the individual but also bring satisfaction to their ancestors.

Why is Makar Sankranti celebrated?

Makar Sankranti marks the beginning of the harvest season, and astronomically, it signifies the end of the winter solstice and the start of longer days. According to astrology, on this day, the sun begins its journey towards the northern hemisphere, a period known as Uttarayan. In many states, this day is also celebrated as a kite festival. Makar Sankranti is also mentioned in the Mahabharata and the Puranas. The Mahabharata recounts that Bhishma Pitamah lay on a bed of arrows, awaiting the sun's movement into Uttarayan, and it was during this period that he left his mortal body. According to another legend, on this day, the Ganges River, following King Bhagiratha, flowed through the ashram of Sage Kapila and finally merged with the ocean.

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