Winter Solstice 2024: When is the December solstice? Know Exact Date, Time and more about the Longest Night of the year

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Winter Solstice 2024: Date and Timings

For 2024, the Winter Solstice will fall on December 21, with the exact moment occurring at 2:49 PM IST. This will be the point where the Sun appears at its lowest position in the sky, resulting in the shortest day and longest night for those in the Northern Hemisphere.

Solstice and the Earth's Orbit

The solstices happen twice each year, once in June and once in December. In June, the Summer Solstice occurs in the Northern Hemisphere, while it is the Winter Solstice in the Southern Hemisphere. Similarly, in December, when it is Winter Solstice in the Northern Hemisphere, it is the Summer Solstice in the Southern Hemisphere.

To avoid confusion, the solstices are often referred to as the June Solstice (Northern Solstice) and the December Solstice (Southern Solstice). These terms are used to differentiate between the two events based on the hemisphere experiencing winter or summer.

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Winter Solstice in Hindu Astrology: Significance

In Hindu astrology, the Winter Solstice is called Tropical Uttarayana, which marks the start of the sun's northward journey. However, Sidereal Uttarayana, which is based on the starry sky, begins from Makara Sankranti, which falls in mid-January. Uttarayana is considered an auspicious period for spiritual practices and beginning important ventures.

The Winter Solstice also marks the beginning of Devkal — a time considered highly beneficial for starting auspicious work in Hindu culture.

A Moment of Transition

The Winter Solstice is more than just an astronomical event; it’s seen as a time of transition and renewal. Many cultures across the world celebrate this time as a turning point, where the Sun’s return begins to bring lighter each day, symbolising hope, renewal, and the arrival of spring.

In conclusion, the Winter Solstice of 2024 will be a significant event that holds both scientific and cultural importance. Whether you observe it through astronomy or spiritual traditions, it’s a moment to reflect on the changing seasons and the cyclical nature of life. Make sure to mark December 21 in your calendar and witness the shortest day of the year!

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