Makar Sankranti 2026 – As with every year, there is considerable confusion among people regarding the correct date for Makar Sankranti in 2026. Some are suggesting celebrating it on January 14th, while others believe January 15th is the correct day for Makar Sankranti. This raises the question:
When is the auspicious time to celebrate Makar Sankranti according to religious scriptures? To clear up this confusion, astrologer from Varanasi, who has clarified the entire situation based on the Panchang (Hindu calendar) and scriptures.
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Makar Sankranti 2026 Date and Time
According to astrologer Pandit Ved Prakash Mishra, On the night of January 14, 2026, at approximately 9:35 PM, the Sun will move from Sagittarius to Capricorn. This transition of the Sun from one zodiac sign to another is called Sankranti.
The scriptures clearly state that the festival of Sankranti is celebrated based on the ‘Udayatithi’ (the time of sunrise), and not merely according to the calendar date. Since the Sun’s entry into Capricorn is happening at night, its religious and auspicious effects will be considered on the following day, January 15, 2026.
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Why is celebrating Makar Sankranti on January 15th correct?
Pandit Ved Prakash Mishra explains that:
The auspicious period of Sankranti is considered to last for approximately 16 hours after the Sun’s transition. Bathing, donating, chanting, and performing puja are considered most auspicious in the morning. Therefore, the auspicious period of Makar Sankranti will be fully effective on the morning of January 15th.
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For this reason, performing rituals like offering Khichdi (a rice and lentil dish), bathing in the Ganges, donating sesame seeds and jaggery, and other religious activities on January 15th is considered correct according to the scriptures.
Why not offer Khichdi on January 14th?
This year, Shatila Ekadashi also falls on January 14th. According to religious beliefs—
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Consuming and donating rice is considered forbidden on Ekadashi.
Therefore, making or donating rice khichdi (a rice and lentil dish) is not considered appropriate.
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However, January 15th will be the Dwadashi tithi (lunar day), on which donating rice and khichdi is considered highly auspicious and in accordance with religious scriptures.
Makar Sankranti 2026 Auspicious Time (Punya Kaal Timing)
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Beginning of the auspicious period: January 15th, from Brahma Muhurta (pre-dawn period)
Most auspicious time: 7:15 AM to 8:00 AM
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Valid time: Devotees can perform bathing and donation rituals until 12:00 PM if they wish.
During this period, taking a holy dip in the Ganges, donating sesame seeds and jaggery, donating khichdi, performing Surya Puja (sun worship), and engaging in prayers and penance are believed to bring special merit.
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According to the Panchang (Hindu calendar), scriptures, and astrological calculations—
Celebrating the festival of Makar Sankranti 2026 on January 15th is completely in accordance with religious scriptures and highly auspicious. Performing bathing, donation rituals, the Khichdi festival, and other religious ceremonies on January 15th will yield the full benefits.