Makar Sankranti 2026: Will It Be Celebrated on 14 or 15 January? Auspicious Timings and the Importance of Charity

In Hinduism, the festival of Makar Sankranti holds great significance. When the Sun God moves out of Sagittarius and enters Capricorn, this transition is known as Makar Sankranti. "The significance of the Makar Sankranti festival is that it marks the day where there is a significant movement in the zodiac – the arrangement of the earth’s dial around the sun – and this movement brings about a new change in the way we experience the planet itself," states Sadhguru in a blog published on Isha's website.

He adds, "There are many sankrantis through the year; the two significant ones being Makar Sankranti, and right opposite, after summer solstice is Karka Sankranti. In between, there are many Sankrantis – every time the zodiac sign changes, it is called a Sankranti to suggest the movement of the planet, to understand that our life is sustained and nourished by this movement."

The festival is celebrated under different names across various parts of India. In Uttar Pradesh ad Bihar it is known as Khichdi Parv, in Punjab it is celebrated as Lohri, and in South India it is observed as Pongal. Here are all the details about Makar Sankranti, including the date, auspicious timings for snan and daan, and more.

As per religious beliefs, the full spiritual benefit of Sankranti is attained only when auspicious deeds like bathing and charity are performed during the prescribed auspicious period. This year, the Sun enters Capricorn on 14 January at 3:13 pm.

Punya Kaal: 3:13 pm to 5:46 pm

Maha Punya Kaal: 3:13 pm to 4:58 am

Maha Punya Kaal is the most auspicious time for taking a bath in sacred rivers and giving charity.

Disclaimer: This article is based on popular beliefs. Times Now is not responsible for the accuracy or completeness of the information and facts provided here.