Makar Sankranti 2026
Wednesday, 14 January 2026 · By Rohiit Gupta, Chief Vedic Architect, Trikaal Vaani · Swiss Ephemeris · Lahiri Ayanamsha
Planetary Ruler: Sun
Makar Sankranti falls on Wednesday, 14 January 2026, marking the solar transit of the Sun into Capricorn. Devotees honor Surya Dev through sacred river baths, offering arghya, and distributing sesame sweets. This festival marks the start of Uttarayan, signifying longer days, agricultural abundance, and spiritual renewal across homes in India.
Significance
Makar Sankranti celebrates the transition of the Sun into Makara Rashi, or Capricorn, which begins Uttarayan, the six-month northward movement of the Sun. In traditional belief, this day marks the end of winter cold and the onset of fruitful harvest cycles. According to sacred tradition, Lord Surya visits his son Shani on this day, putting aside differences to symbolize reconciliation, mutual respect, and family harmony. Taking a holy dip in sacred rivers during this transit washes away impurities and promotes clarity of mind. Giving charity, especially sesame seeds, jaggery, and warm blankets, brings blessings of good health and peace. This solar festival inspires gratitude toward nature and encourages righteous conduct for the coming season.
Panchang on Makar Sankranti 2026
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Why is sesame eaten on Makar Sankranti?
Sesame seeds offer natural warmth during winter and carry traditional purification properties. Consuming and donating sesame sweets like til-laddus on this day is believed to cleanse past mistakes, foster longevity, and invite blessings of sound health.
What is the importance of charity on this festival?
Charity during Makar Sankranti holds great spiritual merit. Donating warm clothes, grains, and sesame to needy people brings peace and good karma. Tradition holds that gifts offered during this solar transit return multiplied benefits to the giver.
What does the start of Uttarayan signify?
Uttarayan marks the Sun's six-month journey northward, initiating longer days and warmer weather. Considered an auspicious phase in the Vedic calendar, it symbolizes moving from darkness to light and serves as an ideal time for spiritual practices.