Makar Sankranti 2026: Date, Punya Kaal Muhurat, and Spiritual Significance
Makar Sankranti and Pongal are two sides of the same coin—vibrant festivals celebrating the Sun’s transition into the Northern Hemisphere (Uttarayana). While Makar Sankranti is widely celebrated across North and Central India, Pongal is the grand harvest equivalent in Tamil Nadu.
Why Celebrate Makar Sankranti? (The Significance)
Makar Sankranti is one of the most important Hindu festivals and is unique because it is based on the solar calendar, unlike most Indian festivals that follow the lunar cycle. It marks the day when the Sun enters the zodiac sign Capricorn (Makara) and begins its northward journey (Uttarayana). This celestial transition is considered highly auspicious, positive, and spiritually uplifting.
Makar Sankranti symbolizes:
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End of winter and beginning of longer days
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Harvest season and agricultural prosperity
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Renewal, hope, and spiritual awakening
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Victory of light over darkness
Across India, the festival is celebrated in different forms:
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Pongal in Tamil Nadu
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Uttarayan in Gujarat (kite festival)
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Lohri & Maghi in Punjab
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Khichdi festival in Uttar Pradesh & Bihar
Despite regional variations, the essence remains the same—gratitude to the Sun God (Surya), nature, farmers, and cattle for sustaining life.
Spiritually, Uttarayana is believed to be the time when divine energies are most active, making it ideal for charity (daan), holy baths, prayers, and new beginnings.
Makar Sankranti & Pongal 2026 Dates
In 2026, the celestial transit happens in the afternoon on January 14th, making it the primary day for celebrations.
The 2026 Festive Calendar
| Date | Festival Name | Key Rituals |
| Jan 13, 2026 | Lohri / Bhogi | Bonfires, discarding old items, prayers for the new season. |
| Jan 14, 2026 | Makar Sankranti / Pongal | Holy dips (Snan), Daan (Charity), and cooking the Pongal dish. |
| Jan 15, 2026 | Mattu Pongal / Magh Bihu | Honoring cattle and farm animals; community feasts. |
| Jan 16, 2026 | Kaanum Pongal | Family reunions and travel to meet relatives. |
2026 Puja Muhurat & Timings
According to the Hindu Panchang, the Sankranti Moment (the exact time the Sun enters Capricorn) is at 03:13 PM on Wednesday, January 14, 2026.
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Punya Kala (Auspicious Window): 03:13 PM to 05:45 PM
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Maha Punya Kala (Most Potent Time): 03:13 PM to 04:58 PM
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Ideal Rituals: Taking a holy dip (Snan) and giving charity (Daan) are most fruitful during the Maha Punya Kala window.
Spiritual & Cultural Significance
Makar Sankranti teaches:
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Gratitude toward nature
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Sharing and charity, especially sesame (til) and jaggery
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Harmony between humans, animals, and environment
From flying kites to cooking traditional dishes, the festival blends spirituality, culture, and celebration, making it one of the most joyful pan-India festivals.
