Makar Sankranti is one of the most important festivals in the Hindu calendar and is believed to mark the beginning of the day of the gods. In 2026, there
has been confusion about whether the festival falls on January 14 or January 15. According to the Hindu calendar, the Sun will enter Capricorn (Makar Rashi) on January 14. As per scriptures, the 16 hours following this moment are considered highly auspicious. This period is known as Punya Kaal. On this day, taking a bath in holy waters of rivers such as Ganges is considered auspicious. One needs to chant the Gayatri Mantra, worship Surya Dev, and recite guru mantra after the snan. Additionally, while offering water to Surya Dev, it is a tradition to offer red flowers, clothes, wheat, Akshat (uncooked rice grains), and betel nuts. Khichdi also holds special significance on Makar Sankranti, which is why many people distribute it as charity.
When is Makar Sankranti?
According to Drik Panchang, Makar Sankranti falls on Wednesday, 14 January, 2026.Makar Sankranti Punya Kala - 03:13 PM to 06:18 PM
Makar Sankranti Maha Punya Kala - 03:13 PM to 05:04 PM
As per Drik Panchang, from the time of Sankranti, the next 40 ghatis are considered ideal for all rituals. One ghati equals 24 minutes, which makes this auspicious window last for about 16 hours in Indian conditions. Holy baths, offerings to the Sun, charity, Shraddha rituals and breaking fast should be done only during this time and strictly during daylight hours.
Makar Sankranti Rituals
Wake up before sunrise and take a bath, preferably in a holy river. If that isn’t possible, mix a few drops of Ganga Jal in your bathing water. Wear clean clothes and apply a tilak of roli and rice.
For the puja, fill a copper lota with water and add roli, flowers, jaggery and black sesame seeds. Face east and offer water to the rising Sun while chanting “Om Suryaya Namah” or “Om Ghṛṇi Suryaya Namah.” Keep your head covered during worship and avoid tamasic food on the day.
Disclaimer: This article is based on popular beliefs. Times Now is not responsible for the accuracy or completeness of the information provided.
