Makar Sankranti 2025 Date, Time, and Significance

Makar Sankranti 2025 Date, Time, and Significance

Makar Sankranti, one of the most celebrated Hindu festivals in India, marks the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makara). This auspicious event is deeply rooted in Indian culture and signifies the beginning of longer days as the Sun moves northward. In 2025, Makar Sankranti falls on Tuesday, January 14, with significant Muhurta timings to observe the associated rituals and festivities.

Makar Sankranti 2025: Date and Time

Makar Sankranti: Significance

Makar Sankranti is a festival that celebrates the harvest season and honours Lord Surya (the Sun God) for sustaining life on Earth. It symbolises the triumph of light over darkness and is associated with prosperity, gratitude, and renewal. It is also considered a favourable time for beginning new ventures and spiritual practices.

This festival is celebrated with unique names and traditions across India:

• Tamil Nadu: Known as Pongal, it involves preparing a special sweet dish to thank nature and the Sun.
• Gujarat and Rajasthan: Called Uttarayana, kite flying is a significant tradition that brings people together.
• Punjab and Haryana: Known as Maghi, people take a holy dip in rivers and relish traditional foods like kheer and jaggery sweets.

During Makar Sankranti, people engage in various spiritual and charitable activities:

• Taking a Holy Dip: Bathing in sacred rivers such as the Ganga, Yamuna, or Godavari is believed to purify the soul and wash away sins.
• Offering Naivedhya: Devotees prepare and offer food to Lord Surya to express gratitude.
• Charity and Donations: Donating clothes, food, and money to the needy during Punya Kaal is considered highly meritorious.
• Shraddha Rituals: Performing rituals for ancestors is an integral part of the festival.
• Breaking Fast (Parana): Many people observe fasts and break them during the Punya Kaal Muhurta.

Each region adds its unique flavour to the celebrations:

• In Maharashtra, people exchange sweets made of sesame seeds and jaggery, symbolising unity and warmth.
• In Bengal, large fairs, such as the famous Ganga Sagar Mela, are organised for pilgrims.
• In South India, families celebrate Pongal with vibrant kolam designs and festive feasts.
• In Gujarat, the skies are filled with colourful kites as people celebrate Uttarayana with enthusiasm.

May this Makar Sankranti 2025 bring joy, prosperity, and enlightenment to you and your loved ones!