Makar Sankranti is one of the most auspicious and widely celebrated Hindu festivals in India. Unlike many Hindu festivals that follow the lunar calendar, the Makar Sankranti 2026 date and time are based on the solar calendar, which is why its date remains almost the same every year. In 2026, devotees across India will celebrate this sacred festival with great faith, rituals, and traditional joy.
Makar Sankranti 2026 Date and Time
Makar Sankranti 2026 date and time, Makar Sankranti in 2026 will be celebrated on 14 January 2026 (Wednesday). On this day, the Sun enters the zodiac sign Makara (Capricorn), marking the beginning of Uttarayan, the northward journey of the Sun.
Makar Sankranti 2026 Time (Surya Sankranti)
Makar Sankranti 2026 date and time, Makar Sankranti is observed at the moment when the Sun transits into Capricorn.
- The exact Sankranti time may vary slightly based on geographical location.
- The festival rituals are generally performed during the daytime, as the Sun’s transition happens during daylight hours in most parts of India.
Note: Makar Sankranti 2026 date and time. For precise Sankranti timing and Punya Kaal based on your city, it is always recommended to follow a trusted Hindu Panchang.
Spiritual Significance of Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti holds deep spiritual importance in Hinduism:
- It marks the end of Dakshinayan and the beginning of Uttarayan, considered highly auspicious.
- According to scriptures, the days of Uttarayan are favorable for spiritual growth and positive energy.
- It is believed that charity, bathing in holy rivers, and worship on this day bring immense merit (Punya).
Rituals and Traditions on Makar Sankranti
Across India, Makar Sankranti is celebrated in different ways, but some common rituals include:
- Holy bath in rivers like the Ganga, Yamuna, and Godavari
- Donation (Daan) of sesame seeds (Til), jaggery, clothes, and food
- Worship of Surya Dev (Sun God)
- Preparing traditional sweets made of Til and Gur (jaggery)
Flying kites, especially in Gujarat and Rajasthan
Regional Names of Makar Sankranti
The Makar Sankranti festival is known by different names across India:
- Pongal – Tamil Nadu
- Uttarayan – Gujarat
- Lohri – Punjab (celebrated a day earlier)
- Magh Bihu – Assam
- Khichdi Parv – Uttar Pradesh & Bihar
Despite regional variations, the essence of the festival remains the same—gratitude, positivity, and new beginnings.
Why Makar Sankranti Is Special in 2026
· It falls on a Wednesday, which is considered auspicious for worship and charity.
· The festival symbolizes hope, prosperity, and the victory of light over darkness.
· It is an ideal day to start new spiritual practices and positive habits.
Conclusion,
Makar Sankranti 2026 date and time, celebrated on 14 January 2026, is a powerful reminder of the harmony between nature and human life. With the Sun’s entry into Capricorn, the day signifies growth, warmth, and divine blessings. Observing rituals with devotion, sharing joy through charity, and embracing positivity make this festival truly meaningful.
May Makar Sankranti 2026 bring happiness, health, and prosperity to your life. If you liked this article, Makar Sankranti 2026 date and time. Please stay connected with our blog for more insightful articles on festivals, temples, history, and India’s spiritual heritage. Keep following Mero Bradham for more insightful and well-researched articles. Radhe Radhe!
FAQs of Makar Sankranti 2026 date and time
Q1. When is Makar Sankranti in 2026?
Makar Sankranti will be celebrated on 14 January 2026 (Wednesday). It marks the day when the Sun enters the zodiac sign Capricorn (Makara).
Q2. What is the exact time of Makar Sankranti in 2026?
Makar Sankranti occurs at the moment of Surya Sankranti, when the Sun transits into Capricorn. The exact time may differ slightly by location, so it is best to check a local Hindu Panchang for accurate timing.
Q3. Why does Makar Sankranti have a fixed date every year?
Unlike most Hindu festivals that follow the lunar calendar, Makar Sankranti is based on the solar calendar, which is why it usually falls on 14 January each year.
Q4. What is the religious significance of Makar Sankranti?
Makar Sankranti signifies the beginning of Uttarayan, the Sun’s northward journey. This period is considered highly auspicious and is associated with spiritual growth, positivity, and divine blessings.
Q5. Which rituals are performed on Makar Sankranti?
Common rituals include taking a holy bath, worshipping Surya Dev, donating til (sesame seeds), jaggery, clothes, and food, and preparing traditional sweets made from til and gur.