Makar Sankranti is one of the most important festivals in the Hindu calendar. It marks a major astronomical and astrological transition. The festival is celebrated when the Sun moves from Sagittarius to Capricorn zodiac sign. This solar transition is known as Surya’s Makara transit.

According to the Hindu Panchang, the Sun will enter Capricorn on January 14, 2026. The transit will take place in the afternoon at 3:13 pm. Due to this timing, confusion has arisen regarding the correct date of celebration. Many devotees are unsure whether Makar Sankranti should be observed on January 14 or January 15.

Why Makar Sankranti Holds Special Importance

Makar Sankranti is also popularly known as Khichdi in many parts of North India. The festival holds deep religious and astrological significance. It marks the beginning of Uttarayan, when the Sun starts moving northward.

With this transition, Kharmas comes to an end. Auspicious activities that were paused during Kharmas can resume. The day is considered highly favorable for spiritual practices, holy bathing, and charitable acts.

In 2026, Makar Sankranti coincides with Magh Krishna Paksha Ekadashi. This rare combination has increased the festival’s importance further. Such a conjunction is considered spiritually powerful.

Makar Sankranti 2026 Date Confusion Explained

The confusion regarding the date arises due to the Sun’s afternoon transit. As per Hindu traditions, Sankranti is celebrated on the day of the solar transition. Since the Sun enters Capricorn on January 14 afternoon, Makar Sankranti will be observed on January 14.

Religious rituals such as holy bathing and charity should be performed on January 14. However, due to Ekadashi Tithi, Khichdi preparation and consumption will be observed on January 15. January 14 will also witness Shattila Ekadashi, which adds religious importance to the day.

Correct Day to Celebrate Makar Sankranti

Based on Panchang calculations, Makar Sankranti should be celebrated on January 14, 2026. The Sun’s entry into Capricorn occurs during daytime, making January 14 the valid date.

Devotees are advised to perform Sankranti-related rituals on this day. Charity, Surya worship, and holy bathing should be done on January 14. The tradition of preparing Khichdi will be followed on January 15 due to Ekadashi observance.

This distinction helps devotees follow rituals accurately without confusion.

Auspicious Time for Bathing and Charity

The auspicious Mahapunya Kaal will begin at 3:13 pm and last until 4:58 pm on January 14. The Punya Kaal will extend from 3:13 pm to 5:46 pm. These time periods are considered highly favorable for religious activities.

Taking a holy bath during this time is believed to bring spiritual merit. Donating food, clothes, and essentials during this period is considered especially rewarding.

With the start of Uttarayan, the Sun’s positive energy is believed to increase. This makes the occasion ideal for spiritual growth.

Religious Significance of Uttarayan

Uttarayan is considered a sacred phase in Hindu belief. It symbolizes the movement from darkness to light. The Sun’s northward journey represents progress, hope, and renewal.

Many religious texts describe Uttarayan as a favorable period for spiritual practices. It is believed that deeds performed during this phase yield long-lasting benefits.

Makar Sankranti marks the official beginning of this auspicious phase.

Traditional Rituals Associated With Makar Sankranti

On Makar Sankranti, devotees worship the Sun God to seek blessings. Recitation of Aditya Hridaya Stotra is considered beneficial. Chanting Surya Chalisa is also recommended on this day.

To seek relief from Shani-related troubles, many devotees recite Shani Chalisa on Makar Sankranti. This practice is believed to balance planetary influences.

Charity plays a key role in Sankranti rituals. Donating blankets, grains, fruits, black sesame seeds, and ghee to the needy is considered highly auspicious.

Why Khichdi Is Prepared on Makar Sankranti

Khichdi symbolizes simplicity and nourishment. It is associated with the idea of sharing food and abundance. In several regions, Makar Sankranti is popularly called the Khichdi festival.

Due to Ekadashi observance in 2026, Khichdi will be prepared on January 15. Devotees following Ekadashi fasting avoid grains on January 14. This is why the tradition shifts by one day.

Despite this, the spiritual essence of the festival remains unchanged.

Astrological Importance of Sun’s Makara Transit

The Sun’s entry into Capricorn is astrologically significant. Capricorn is ruled by Saturn, which represents discipline and responsibility. This transit encourages structured growth and stability.

Astrologers believe this period supports long-term planning and positive transformation. The energy of the Sun becomes more constructive during Uttarayan.

Many people begin new spiritual or disciplined routines after Makar Sankranti.

Cultural Celebrations Across India

Makar Sankranti is celebrated across India under different names. In North India, it is known as Khichdi. In Gujarat, it is celebrated as Uttarayan with kite flying. In South India, it is known as Pongal.

Despite regional variations, the core message remains the same. The festival celebrates gratitude, harvest, and solar movement.

Families gather to perform rituals and share festive meals.

Spiritual Message of Makar Sankranti

Makar Sankranti reminds people to move toward positivity and discipline. It encourages letting go of negativity and embracing growth. The festival connects cosmic movement with human life.

It emphasizes balance between spiritual practices and social responsibility. Charity and compassion form the foundation of the celebration.

This spiritual message remains relevant even in modern times.

Important Reminder for Devotees

Devotees are advised to follow rituals based on Panchang timings. January 14 is ideal for bathing, charity, and Surya worship. Khichdi-related traditions should be observed on January 15.

Consulting local priests can help avoid confusion. Regional traditions may slightly differ in practice.

A Festival of Transition and Hope

Makar Sankranti 2026 brings a powerful blend of astrology and spirituality. The rare combination with Ekadashi adds depth to the occasion. The Sun’s movement into Capricorn marks a fresh phase of positivity.

The festival encourages faith, discipline, and generosity. It serves as a reminder that every transition brings new opportunities. Makar Sankranti remains a timeless celebration of cosmic balance and human values.