Why do people wear black clothes on Makar Sankranti? It's not a fashion statement, but has religious significance..
- byShikha Srivastava
- 10 Jan, 2026
In Sanatan Dharma, the festival of Makar Sankranti holds immense sanctity and special significance. This festival symbolizes the Sun God's entry into the Capricorn zodiac sign, which is considered a sign of auspicious change and new energy. On this day, the Sun God is worshipped with proper rituals, and people take holy dips in the Ganges and other sacred rivers to earn merit. Charity and acts of benevolence also hold special importance and are considered highly fruitful. This year, the Sun God will enter Capricorn on January 14th, and therefore, the festival of Makar Sankranti will be celebrated with great joy and enthusiasm throughout the country on this day. In different states of India, this festival is celebrated with different names and traditions. On this day, the sky is adorned with colorful kites, and a festive atmosphere prevails everywhere.

Why are black clothes not worn during worship?
Generally, wearing black clothes is considered forbidden during any worship or auspicious occasion in Hinduism, but Makar Sankranti is a special festival where wearing black clothes is considered auspicious. Why is black considered auspicious on this day, and what religious and astrological reasons are behind it? Let's find out the secret from the renowned astrologer Anand Bhardwaj of Ujjain.
Why is wearing black considered auspicious on Makar Sankranti?
On the auspicious occasion of Makar Sankranti, Lord Surya (Sun God) enters the zodiac sign of Capricorn, which is ruled by his son, Shani Dev (Saturn). According to astrology and Sanatan traditions, the color black is deeply associated with Shani Dev. Therefore, the tradition of wearing black clothes on Makar Sankranti is prevalent. It is believed that wearing black clothes on this special day pleases Shani Dev and brings his special blessings. This reduces obstacles, suffering, and the effects of Shani Dosha (negative influence of Saturn) in life. This is why, in Maharashtra and many parts of South India, wearing black clothes on the occasion of Makar Sankranti is considered auspicious and beneficial.
The festival of Makar Sankranti is considered not only religious but also a symbol of seasonal change. It is believed that with the sun's northward movement (Uttarayana), the winter season gradually begins to recede, and a change in the weather becomes noticeable. However, according to religious beliefs, the cold is at its peak on Makar Sankranti.
In this context, wearing black clothing is considered beneficial from a practical standpoint, as black absorbs more of the sun's rays, thus providing warmth to the body. This is why the tradition of wearing black clothes on Makar Sankranti has been followed for centuries and is considered auspicious.
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