Have you ever thought how most festivals falls on different dates, but Makar Sankranti 2026 falls on the same date?
In our religion, it’s the one festival that almost always falls on January 14. But as we all remember, 2024 was a bit different—we actually celebrated it on the 15th of January. It’s a great reminder that while we like our “fixed” dates, we are always ultimately following the rhythm of the Sun. Makar Sankranti is popular as many names in different regions and zones of India.
For 2026, the tradition returns to form: mark your calendars for Wednesday, January 14.
This festival marks the end of the harsh winter days. It is celebrated almost on the same date every year. It is a vibrant harvest festival celebrated in January and has great agricultural and religious importance in the Hindu Religion.
Dive in with us and explore everything about one of the major festivals of Hindus. Have a look at the details.
Makar Sankranti 2026: Quick Highlights
| Feature | Details |
| Official Date | Wednesday, January 14, 2026 |
| Sankranti Moment | 03:13 PM (Sun Transit in Capricorn) |
| Maha Punya Kaal | 03:13 PM to 04:58 PM |
| Key Symbolism | Arrival of Uttarayan & Triumph of Light |
| Regional Names | Uttarayan, Lohri, Pongal, Magh Bihu, Khichdi |
| Traditional Food | Til-Gul, Khichdi, Undhiyu, Sakkarai Pongal |
| Spiritual Goal | Seeking Moksha & Performing Charity (Daan) |
Why do we celebrate Makar Sankranti?
Okay, do you know the meaning of Makar Sankranti?
Makar Sankranti is a combination of two words- Makar and Sankranti. On this day, Swami Surya (Sun) moves from Cancer (Kark Rashi) to Capricorn (Makar rashi) zodiac sign. Additionally, it signifies the changing of the season as we step into normal winter days. The climate starts changing from Makar Sankranti. The days become warmer than before after Makar Sankranti.
The Science: Swami Surya’s Big Move
On this day, Swami Surya (the Sun) moves from Cancer (Kark Rashi) into the Capricorn (Makar Rashi) zodiac sign. This isn’t just some abstract thing you read in a book, you can actually feel it in the air.
It marks the shift into what I like to call “normal” winter days. You’ll notice the climate changes right from Makar Sankranti. The harsh, bone-chilling cold starts to fade, and the days gradually become warmer and brighter. It’s like the earth is finally stretching its arms and waking up.
The Bhishma Pitamah Uttarayan story
Do you know the legend behind why we wait for this day?
During the massive battle of the Mahabharata, the great warrior Bhishma was wounded but refused to leave this earth just yet. He famously said he would wait until Uttarayan began because that period is considered so fortunate and divine. Today, that very transition is what we celebrate as Makar Sankranti.
The Spiritual Gateway to Moksha
There’s a deep belief that anyone who passes away on Makar Sankranti, can achieve Moksha, or total liberation. That’s a heavy thought, right? It makes the festival feel so much more spiritually important than just another holiday. It’s not just about the kites; it’s about a fresh start for the soul.
The Significance of Makar Sankranti 2026
Makar Sankranti is undoubtedly a festival of enjoyment as winter days become not so cold on this day. I personally love this festival as it marks the transition period of the year and it’s all about celebrations.
The harvest season holds immense importance for the farmer communities in India.
According to a belief, celebrating this festival can liberate one from all kinds of suffering and pain. It shows the end of darkness and evil.
This Harvest festival of India is a celebration of fresh beginnings and refreshing vibes. Whether it is about flying kites, taking holy dips in The rivers, or enjoying delicious foods, Makar Sankranti brings happiness. It is filled with great significance and joy.
Come together and celebrate the spirit of gratefulness by engaging in small acts of humanity to spread love and positivity.
The Secret Behind the Kites: Why do we fly kites on Uttarayan?
Have you ever wondered why we all rush to our rooftops? It’s more than just “Kai Po Che!” battles; it’s a beautiful mix of health and hope:
- A Natural “Health Boost”: Flying kites gets us out in the sun after winter. Those hours on the terrace provide a rich dose of Vitamin D, helping clear skin infections and germs naturally.
- A Symbol of the Soul: Just like a kite, our soul aims to fly high. The thread represents our roots, while the soaring kite symbolizes our desire for spiritual freedom.
- Waking Up the Gods: Filling the sky with color signals the end of the “night of the gods” (Dakshinayan). Also, it is a sign of welcoming a new season of light and blessings.
Makar Sankranti 2026 Muhurat (Surya Puja timings)
If you’re planning your rituals or charity for Uttarayan 2026 date. Here is everything that you need to know about Makar Sankranti 2026 shubh Muhurat
- Sankranti Moment: 03:13 PM
- Maha Punya Kaal: 03:13 PM to 04:58 PM (The most powerful time for prayers!)
- Punya Kaal: 03:13 PM to 05:45 PM
How do we celebrate Makar Sankranti?
Usually, people celebrate Makar Sankranti by doing any kind of charitable acts. They also decorate their homes and many people fly kites. In India, each state celebrates Sankranti in their own way. Let’s know in a bit of detail:
- Uttar Pradesh (Khichdi Festival): It is popular as the Khichdi Festival. This is a dish which is prepared using rice and black lentils (Urad Dal). It is consumed with Pickle, Chutney (Made from Coriander, Imli and Tomatoes), Dahi, Green Chilly and Papad. Also, donating khichdi is considered auspicious on Sankranti. As a ritual we donate Khichdi to Pandits and also to the needy ones.
- Punjab (Lohri): The previous night of Makar Sankranti is celebrated as Lohri 2026. It’s a festival when people light huge bonfires, sing traditional songs, and celebrate the end of Cold winter days.
- Gujarat (Uttarayan): It is called Uttarayan and also the International kite festival. This act draws participants and tourists from all around the world and the famous dish called “Undhiyu”. It is made using mixed vegetables with seasonal items.
- Assam (Magh Bihu): People celebrate it as a harvest festival. It is all about enjoying delicious meals, bonfires and celebrating together with families and communities as one.
- Southern India (Pongal): It is celebrated as Pongal which is a four-day harvest festival. People cook a special dish called “Sakkarai Pongal”. It is made from rice, jaggery, Ghee and milk using clay pots and honor the God Sun.
The Traditions that Bring Us Together
- A Sky Full of Colors: You can witness a sky full of bright colors, all you can see is kites. Kite battles are held in several states and people celebrate with immense joy.
- Rituals for Good Luck: In several Indian states, people make rangolis. It is considered one of the most important rituals for any Indian festival. By doing this, we welcome positivity and good luck for the coming year.
- The Mela Vibe: Numerous fairs and events are organised during Uttarayan. It is called “Uttarayani Mela” where people visit and enjoy the vibe of this festival.
- The Power of Sesame Seeds: Sesame seeds are extensively used as sweets and dishes. Usually people prepare Tilgul and Tilachi Vadi in Maharashtra, Undhiyu and jalebis in Gujarat. While Makki roti and sarson ka saag in Punjab, and Ariselu in Andhra Pradesh.
- Health and Spirituality: As per ancient beliefs, exposure to the Sun during Makar Sankranti protects us from illnesses and skin infections. So, as a ritual, Kite flying has become an integral part of the festivity. Also, taking a holy dip in rivers- the Ganga, Yamuna, or Godavari removes all the sins and provides blessings.
How to Celebrate the Spirit of Sankranti 2026
As you prepare for the festivities, remember that the rituals are all about connection to nature, divine, and each other. Here is how you can truly embrace the spirit of the day:
- Eat Til-Gul: We share sesame and jaggery to remind us to keep our words sweet as the food we eat. This is what our Til- gud ritual taught us.
- Fly Kites: It’s not just for fun but a way to soak in the sun’s new warmth.
- Perform Daan (Charity): Since it’s a day of “new beginnings,” many people donate blankets, food, or warm clothes to those in need.
Spreading Sweetness This Uttarayan
Makar Sankranti is more than just a date on the calendar. It’s a celebration of light, gratitude, and a fresh start. Whether you are flying kites in Gujarat, eating Khichdi in Uttar Pradesh, or celebrating Pongal in the South, the message remains the same. Just let go of the old and welcome the new with a sweet heart. We will celebrate other festivals like Pongal and Lohri 2026 in few days.
Happy Makar Sankranti 2026 to you and your family!
Also Read: Sakat Chauth 2026 Date, Important Timing, Rituals, Special Ganesh Pooja and Moonrise time
FAQs:
Q: Is Makar Sankranti 2026 on January 14 or 15?
A: In 2026, Makar Sankranti falls on Wednesday, January 14. While the date occasionally shifts, this year the Sun enters Capricorn on the 14th, making it the primary day for celebration.
Q: What is the best time for the holy bath (Snan) in 2026?
A: The most auspicious time, or Maha Punya Kaal, is between 03:13 PM and 04:58 PM. However, the general Punya Kaal remains active until 05:45 PM, giving you plenty of time for rituals and charity.
Q: Why is Khichdi eaten on this day?
A: Eating Khichdi is a ritual mainly in North India. It is made from newly harvested rice and lentils, symbolizing the bounty of the harvest. It’s also considered a “Sattvic” meal that detoxifies the body as the seasons change.
Q: Can we fly kites at night on Makar Sankranti?
A: Yes! In many places like Ahmedabad and Jaipur, people fly “Tukkals” (kites with lanterns attached) at night. It’s a beautiful way to end the festivities and light up the dark winter sky.
Q: Can we celebrate Makar Sankranti in an eco-friendly way?
A: Yes, we can celebrate Sankranti in an eco-friendly way;
- By using biodegradable kites to save the environment.
- By avoiding plastic decorations.
- By minimizing waste.
Q: Why is sesame and jaggery considered as significant on Makar Sankranti?
A: Sesame and Jaggery are considered as warm foods so eating them in winters will keep your body healthy. This is why they are considered as significant on Makar Sankranti.
Q: What are the popular foods that are made on Sankranti?
A: Til-Gur Laddoo, Khichdi, Chikki, Undhiyu, Sakkarai Pongal, etc. are some popular foods that have been prepared at homes during the occasion.
