Makar Sankranti
मकर संक्रान्ति
January 14, 2026
Significance
The day the Sun enters Capricorn (Makar rashi) — marking the beginning of the Sun's northward journey (Uttarayan). This is considered the most auspicious period in the Hindu calendar. It is the harvest festival of India, celebrated under different names across states — Pongal (Tamil Nadu), Lohri (Punjab), Bihu (Assam), Uttarayan (Gujarat).
Story & Mythology
According to the Mahabharata, Bhishma Pitamaha chose to die during Uttarayan because the soul's journey is auspicious during this period. The Ganga descended to earth on this day according to some traditions. The festival also celebrates the end of the dark, cold winter month and the return of longer, warmer days.
Puja Vidhi & Rituals
- 1
Take an early morning bath (preferably in a river — Ganga snan is especially auspicious)
- 2
Offer arghya (water) to Surya (Sun God) with til (sesame) and jaggery
- 3
Donate til, gur (jaggery), rice, warm clothes, and khichdi to the poor
- 4
Prepare and eat til-gul (sesame-jaggery sweets)
- 5
Fly kites (Uttarayan tradition, especially Gujarat and Rajasthan)