As the winter chill begins to recede and the first hints of spring emerge, India prepares to welcome one of its most ancient and joyous festivals: Makar Sankranti (मकर संक्रांती). Celebrated on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, this festival is a vibrant mosaic of culture, astronomy, and agriculture that ripples across the entire country.
Unlike many Indian festivals that follow the lunar calendar, Makar Sankranti follows the solar cycle, marking the precise moment the Sun enters the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makar). This celestial event signifies the beginning of Uttarayan, the Sun’s six-month northward journey, bringing longer, warmer days and a period considered highly auspicious for new beginnings.
One Festival, Many Names
While the core spirit of gratitude remains universal, Makar Sankranti is celebrated with unique regional flavors across India.
Uttarayan (Gujarat & Rajasthan): The sky transforms into a battlefield of thousands of colorful kites
Pongal (Tamil Nadu): A four-day celebration honoring the Sun God and cattle, featuring the boiling of newly harvested rice in clay pots.
Lohri & Maghi (Punjab & Haryana): Celebrated with massive bonfires, traditional Bhangra dances, and offerings of sesame and jaggery.
Magh Bihu (Assam): Marked by community feasts, traditional games, and the burning of bamboo huts called Meji.
Poush Sankranti (West Bengal): Famous for the Ganga Sagar Mela, where millions take a holy dip at the confluence of the Ganges and the Bay of Bengal.
Khichdi Parv (Uttar Pradesh & Bihar): Focuses on ritual bathing in holy rivers and eating Khichdi with ghee to symbolize nutritional balance and unity.
The Science and Spirit of the Feast
The traditional menu is dominated by two primary ingredients: Til (Sesame) and Gur (Jaggery). According to Ayurveda, these warming foods are essential during the winter transition to boost immunity and maintain body temperature.
In Maharashtra, people exchange Til-gul sweets with the heartwarming phrase, “Til-gul ghya, god god bola” (तिळगुळ घ्या, गोड गोड बोला) (Accept this sesame sweet and speak sweet words), encouraging harmony and the resolution of past disputes. Other beloved delicacies include Undhiyu (a mixed vegetable curry) in Gujarat, Puran Poli in Maharashtra, and Pithe (rice cakes) in Bengal.
Rituals of Renewal
The day often begins before sunrise with a holy dip in sacred rivers like the Ganga or Yamuna, believed to cleanse the soul of past sins. Devotees offer Arghya (water) to the Sun God, Surya, as the source of all energy and life.
Charity (Daan) is another cornerstone of the festival. Giving blankets, grains, and warm clothes to the needy is considered highly meritorious during this auspicious transition, multiplying blessings for the year ahead.
Why We Fly Kites
Kite flying is a significant tradition associated with Makar Sankranti, symbolizing health and aspirations. Spending time under the sun to absorb Vitamin D, which is beneficial after winter, is also a traditional aspect of the practice.
Celebrating in 2026
In 2026, Makar Sankranti will be observed on January 14, with the Sun entering the Makara Rashi in the afternoon. This time is considered auspicious for rituals and festive meals. The festival is a time to appreciate nature’s cycles and embrace new beginnings.
The Science of “Til-Gul (तिळगुळ )
The festival’s signature foods—Sesame (Til) and Jaggery (Gur)—are carefully chosen for their Ayurvedic benefits. These warming ingredients provide essential fats and minerals to boost immunity during the winter-to-spring transition. The famous Marathi greeting, (तिळगुळ घ्या, गोड गोड बोला), “Til-gul ghya, god god bola” (Accept this sweet and speak sweetly), encourages harmony and the mending of relationships.