Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti in 2026 will be celebrated on January 15. The festival marks the celestial event of the Sun moving into Capricorn (Makara Rashi), beginning the auspicious phase of Uttarayan—the northward journey of the Sun. This transition signifies the end of harsh winter and the arrival of longer, brighter days.
Spiritually, it is considered a time of renewal, transformation, and gratitude. Hindus believe that bathing in holy rivers on this day washes away sins and brings blessings from Surya Dev (the Sun God).
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🌍 Regional Variations
Makar Sankranti is celebrated across India under different names, each with unique traditions:
Tamil Nadu – Pongal
Cooking sweet rice dish, thanking Sun and cattle
Punjab – Lohri
Bonfire, folk songs, and dance
Gujarat – Uttarayan
Kite festivals, feasts
Maharashtra – Tilgul
Exchange of sesame sweets with blessings
Andhra Pradesh & Telangana – Pedda Panduga
Family gatherings, feasts, and rituals
🌞 Makar Sankranti Puja Method
On the day of Makar Sankranti, wake up early in the morning during the auspicious time and take a bath in a holy river or lake. If this is not possible, you may bathe at home. While bathing, recite the following mantras:
Mantras during Bathing:
On the day of Makar Sankranti, wake up early in the morning during the auspicious time and take a bath in a holy river or lake. If this is not possible, you may bathe at home. While bathing, recite the following mantras:
Mantras during Bathing:
Gange Ch Yamune Chaiv Godaavari Sarasvati।
Narmade Sindhu Kaaveri Jalasminsannidhin Kuru॥
Om Apavitrah Pavitro Vaa Sarvavasthan Gatopi Vaa।
Yah Smaret Puṇḍarikaaksham Sah Baahyaabhantarah Shuchih॥
After bathing, wear clean clothes. For the puja, take a copper vessel (lota) and fill it with pure water. Mix flowers, sesame seeds, jaggery, and roli (red sacred powder) into the water. Facing the east direction, offer Arghya (water offering) to Lord Surya (the Sun God). While offering, chant with devotion:
“Om Suryay Namah”
After this, offer sesame laddoos, khichdi, and other food preparations to Lord Surya. Recite the Surya Chalisa or Aditya Hridaya Stotra.
🌟 Cultural and Spiritual Essence
Makar Sankranti is more than a harvest festival—it is a celebration of cosmic harmony. The Sun’s northward journey is seen as a metaphor for spiritual upliftment and enlightenment. Communities come together to share food, joy, and gratitude, reinforcing bonds of unity.
The festival also emphasizes the balance between nature and humanity, reminding us to honor the cycles of the Earth and the cosmic order.
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Disclaimer: KirtanChalisa.com provides information based on beliefs and information, but does not confirm any beliefs or information. Consult an expert before implementing any information or belief.