Makar Sankranti 2026: Date, Timings, Panchang Tithi, Puja, Khichdi, Snan, Shubh Muhurat As Per Hindu Calendar

Makar Sankranti, one of the most important mid-harvest festivals in India, will be celebrated in January 2026 with religious significance, spiritual rituals and regional festivities across the country. The festival marks the auspicious solar transition when the Sun enters the Makara (Capricorn) zodiac sign, signalling the end of winter, the beginning of Uttarayan and longer daylight hours.

It is dedicated to Lord Surya, the Sun God and is considered highly favourable for holy baths, charity and spiritual practices.

Makar Sankranti 2026 Date, Timings, Tithi, Snan Shubh Muhurat As Per Drik Panchang & Hindu Calendar

According to the Hindu Calendar and Drik Panchang, Makar Sankranti will be observed on Wednesday, January 14, 2026. The Sankranti moment, when the Sun enters Capricorn, will occur at 3:13 pm. On this basis, religious experts state that the main rituals of snan (holy bath) and daan (charity) should be performed on January 14 itself. The Maha Punya Kaal will be from 3:13 pm to 4:58 pm, while the broader Punya Kaal will extend from 3:13 pm to 5:46 pm.

14 January or 15 January: When is Makar Sankranti in 2026?

Many people remain confused about whether Makar Sankranti should be observed on January 14 or January 15. As per the Panchang, since the Sun enters Capricorn at 3:13 pm on January 14, that day is considered ideal for religious rituals, charity and bathing.

However, because Shattila Ekadashi also falls on January 14, many households will prepare and consume khichdi on January 15 after completing the Ekadashi fast. This is why both dates hold importance in different traditions.

History and Religious Significance of Makar Sankranti

The origins of Makar Sankranti are deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. According to legends, Sankranti is a divine force that defeated the demon Sankarasur, symbolising the victory of good over evil. The festival also marks the end of Kharmas, a period considered inauspicious for new beginnings. With the arrival of Uttarayan, auspicious activities, marriages and religious ceremonies resume across many parts of India.

Makar Sankranti Rituals, Holy Bath and Puja Vidhi

On Makar Sankranti, devotees traditionally begin the day with a holy bath in sacred rivers, ponds or at home using holy water. Charity holds special importance, with people donating food grains, black sesame seeds, ghee, jaggery, fruits and warm clothes like blankets. Reciting Aditya Hridaya Stotra and Surya Chalisa is believed to bring blessings from Lord Surya, while chanting Shani Chalisa is considered beneficial for reducing the effects of Saturn, according to traditional belief.

Pongal 2026: When is Thai Pongal? Check Dates, Auspicious Timings To Celebrate Bhogi Pandigai, Mattu Pongal and Kaanum Pongal

Makar Sankranti is celebrated under different names across India. In Tamil Nadu, Pongal is observed from January 13 to January 17, with Thai Pongal being the main day. The Thai Pongal Sankranti moment also occurs at 3:13 pm. The festival includes Bhogi Pandigai, Mattu Pongal and Kaanum Pongal, celebrating nature, cattle and family bonds.

Lohri 2026 Date: January 13 or 14; When is Lohri This Year?

In north India, Lohri is celebrated on January 13 with bonfires, folk songs, bhangra and gidda, marking the end of winter and honouring the rabi harvest. Families offer sesame seeds, jaggery and peanuts to the fire and enjoy traditional winter dishes. Although Lohri festivities take place on January 13, the Sankranti moment aligns with January 14.

Magh Bihu 2026 Date & Time: When To Celebrate Bhogali Bihu (Maghar Domahi)

In Assam, Magh Bihu, also known as Bhogali Bihu or Maghar Domahi, will be celebrated on January 15, 2026. Dedicated to Agni, the festival marks the end of the harvest season and focuses on feasting and community celebrations. The auspicious Sankranti moment for Magh Bihu also occurs at 3:13 pm on January 14, as per the Bengali Panjika.