Is Makar Sankranti on January 14 or 15?
Ananya Mishra | Fri, 09 Jan 2026
Makar Sankranti is one of the most important festivals in the Hindu calendar and marks the Sun’s transition into Capricorn. As a solar festival, its date is fixed based on planetary movement, which often creates confusion. Understanding the exact date, timing, and rituals helps devotees observe the festival correctly while embracing its spiritual message of renewal, gratitude, and positive beginnings.
Makar Sankranti 2026
Image credit : AI
Makar Sankranti which is one of the most auspicious days in the Hindu Calendar is approaching soon. This day is a solar festival unlike many other Hindu festivals that follow a lunar calendar. There has been confusion regarding the date, whether it is falling on 14 or 15 January.
According to the Drik Panchang, Makar Sankranti in 2026 will fall on 14 January when Surya Dev will enter Makar Rashi at 3:13 PM IST. The Punya Kaal is considered as the most sacred time for conducting rituals like Surya Arghya, holy baths and charity.
![Ganga Snaan]()
The confusion is generally caused by the regional differences of the Panchang, some of them generate the day of festivals by the sunrise and others according to the time of transit of the planets.
![Kite Flying]()
Unlock insightful tips and inspiration on personal growth, productivity, and well-being. Stay motivated and updated with the latest at My Life XP.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Exact Date and Time of Makar Sankranti 2026
Why There Is Often Confusion Between January 14 and 15
Ganga Snaan
Image credit : Pexels
The confusion is generally caused by the regional differences of the Panchang, some of them generate the day of festivals by the sunrise and others according to the time of transit of the planets.
Core Rituals and Spiritual Practices
Kite Flying
Image credit : Freepik
- Makar Sankranti celebrates faith, purification, gratitude and renewal. People usually celebrate it by waking up early for holy baths in sacred rivers like Ganga, Yamuna and Godavari, to wash impurities and past sins.
- Honouring Surya Dev by practicing the Surya Arghya is one of the most important rituals.
- Sesame seeds, grains and jaggery, clothes and fruits are donated in order to practice gratitude.
- Traditional winter foods like khichdi, til laddoos, chikkis are made and enjoyed by everyone. These are wholesome, delicious and healthy as well.
- Both kids and adults enjoy kite flying in the sunny weather.
Unlock insightful tips and inspiration on personal growth, productivity, and well-being. Stay motivated and updated with the latest at My Life XP.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- On which date is Makar Sankranti in 2026?
Makar Sankranti in 2026 will be celebrated on 14 January. - What is the exact time of Makar Sankranti in 2026?
According to Drik Panchang, Surya Dev enters Makar Rashi at 3:13 PM IST. - What is Punya Kaal on Makar Sankranti?
Punya Kaal is the most sacred time of the day when rituals like holy baths, Surya Arghya, and donations are performed.
