Festival

Makar Sankranti

मकर संक्रान्ति

The Sun enters Capricorn and turns north: a harvest festival of gratitude, sesame and sharing.

Next Makar Sankranti · New DelhiFri, 15 Jan 2027

Why it matters

Makar Sankranti marks the Sun's entry into Makara (Capricorn) and the start of Uttarayana, its northward journey. Unlike most festivals it follows the solar calendar.

It is a harvest festival celebrated across India as Pongal, Lohri, Uttarayan and Bihu. Families take an early bath, offer water to Surya, share sweets of sesame and jaggery and give to those in need. Kites fill the sky in many regions.

The day invites gratitude to the Sun, the earth and all who grow your food, and a fresh, warm start to the season.

Preview — awaiting expert review

Simple home ritual

Bathe early and offer water to the rising Sun.
Prepare or share sweets of sesame and jaggery.
Give food or warm clothing to someone in need.
Spend a few minutes in gratitude for the harvest and those who grow food.

You will need

A vessel of water
Sesame seeds and jaggery

What can I do?

1
Offer water to Surya at sunrise
Offer water to Surya at sunrise
Start →
2
Share one meal (anna daan)
Share one meal (anna daan)
Start →
3
Chant the Surya mantra
Surya Mantra
Chant →

Upcoming dates

Jan15Makara Sankranti