Makar Sankranti, an integral part of Hindu traditions, marks the Sun’s transition into Capricorn (Makar Rashi). Celebrated on January 14, 2025, the festival signifies the end of Kharmas and ushers in an auspicious period for marriages, engagements, and other sacred rituals.
The day holds spiritual importance as devotees bathe in holy rivers, offer Arghya (water) to the Sun God, and perform charity. Known by various names like Pongal, Lohri, Uttarayan, and Bihu, Makar Sankranti highlights India’s cultural diversity while celebrating the harvest season.
This year, Makar Sankranti will be observed on January 14, with the Sun entering Capricorn at 8:41 am. The Punya Kaal, an auspicious period for rituals and donations, will last from 9:03 am to 5:46 pm. The Mahapunya Kaal, considered highly significant, will occur between 9:03 am and 10:48 am.
On Makar Sankranti, devotees begin their day by bathing in the holy Ganges or using Gangajal at home. Yellow attire, symbolizing prosperity, is traditionally worn during the puja. Key rituals include offering water to the Sun God, reading the Surya Chalisa, reciting Aditya Hridaya Stotra, and performing Arti. Donations of sesame, jaggery, and ghee are believed to enhance spiritual blessings.
Charity plays a pivotal role in Makar Sankranti celebrations. Traditional offerings include black sesame seeds, khichdi, urad dal, and items made from ghee, all of which symbolize goodwill and blessings.
The festival is celebrated under diverse names across India, reflecting local customs and beliefs:
Each variation signifies gratitude for the harvest and a shared spirit of festivity.
ALSO READ: Pongal 2025: Dates, Significance, And Traditions Of The Harvest Festival
As the national capital gears up for its approaching Assembly elections on February 5, the…
The future of TikTok in the United States hangs in the balance as the Supreme…
On 14 January 2025, the Sun will move into Capricorn, marking the significant festival of…
An all-girl marching contingent of the National Cadet Corps (NCC) and an all-women Agniveer contingent…
In a notable development, the defamation case filed by former Delhi Minister Satyendar Jain against…
On January 13, 2025, India witnessed the vibrant celebrations of Bhogi in South India and…