Makar Sankranti

Significance

One of the few Hindu festivals set by the Sun rather than the Moon, Makar Sankranti marks the Sun's turn northward (Uttarayana) as it enters sidereal Capricorn — the lengthening of days and the start of the harvest season across India.

The story behind Makar Sankranti

The day honours Surya, the life-giving Sun, and his journey into Makara, the house of his son Shani. In the farming year it is a thanksgiving for the harvest — the first grains, sesame, and jaggery offered before they are enjoyed. Because it follows the solar calendar, its date barely moves, falling on the 14th or 15th of January.

How Makar Sankranti is observed

• A holy dip at sunrise in a river — the Ganga at Prayagraj and Gangasagar draw the largest gatherings.
• Sesame and jaggery sweets (til-gud) shared with the words 'take this sweet, speak sweetly'.
• Kite-flying, especially across Gujarat and Rajasthan.
• Offering water and prayers to the Sun, and giving grain, blankets, and sweets in charity.

Puja Vidhi & Prayers

Watch the step-by-step puja vidhi, aarti, and prayers for Makar Sankranti.

Makar Sankranti dates (2015–2035)

Dates are computed from precise sidereal (Lahiri) astronomy for a New Delhi reference and may vary by ±1 day for some evening/midnight festivals depending on your location and regional tradition — the timings above adjust to where you are.