Makar Sankranti, one of India’s most widely celebrated harvest festivals, will be observed on January 14, 2026. 

Unlike many Hindu festivals that follow the lunar calendar, Makar Sankranti is based on the solar cycle, making its date largely fixed every year. The festival marks a significant event and holds deep cultural, spiritual, and agricultural importance across the country.

Why Makar Sankranti Is Celebrated?

Makar Sankranti signifies the Sun’s transition into the zodiac sign Capricorn (Makara). This movement marks the beginning of Uttarayan, the sun’s northward journey, which is considered highly auspicious in Hindu tradition. 

According to ancient beliefs, the period of Uttarayan symbolises light, positivity, and spiritual progress, while the previous phase, Dakshinayan, is associated with darkness and inactivity.

The festival also marks the end of the winter solstice and the gradual lengthening of days, bringing warmth and renewed energy. Farmers across India celebrate it as a harvest festival, thanking nature for its bounty and welcoming a new agricultural cycle.

Cultural Significance Across India

Makar Sankranti is celebrated under different names in different regions, reflecting India’s cultural diversity.

In Punjab, it is celebrated as Lohri, marked by bonfires and folk songs. Tamil Nadu observes it as Pongal, a four-day harvest festival. In Assam, it is known as Magh Bihu, while Gujarat celebrates with vibrant kite-flying festivals that fill the sky with colour.

Despite regional variations, the essence of the festival remains the same: gratitude, renewal, and togetherness.

Rituals and Traditions

One of the most common rituals associated with Makar Sankranti is taking a holy dip in rivers such as the Ganga, Yamuna, and Godavari. It is believed that bathing on this day cleanses sins and brings spiritual merit.

Another key tradition is the exchange of til (sesame) and jaggery sweets, symbolising unity, warmth, and harmony. The phrase “til-gud ghya ani god-god bola” reflects the spirit of speaking kindly and maintaining sweet relationships.

Spiritual and Health Importance

Makar Sankranti is not only spiritually significant but also aligned with seasonal health practices. Sesame seeds and jaggery, commonly consumed during this time, help generate warmth in the body and strengthen immunity during winter.

Spiritually, the festival encourages people to move away from negativity and embrace discipline, charity, and self-reflection. Donating food, clothes, and essentials to the needy is considered highly auspicious.

A Festival of Hope and Positivity

As Makar Sankranti 2026 approaches, the festival serves as a reminder of the balance between nature, faith, and human life.

It celebrates new beginnings, collective joy, and the timeless bond between tradition and daily living, making it one of the most meaningful festivals in India’s cultural calendar.