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Join With Us<\/span>\n <a href=\"https:\/\/t.me\/durgapujacountdn\" class=\"telegram-btn\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\n <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/telegram.org\/img\/t_logo.png\" alt=\"Telegram\" class=\"telegram-logo\" \/>\n Join Now\n <\/a>\n <\/div>\n\n<\/body>\n<\/html>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_82_2 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #000000;color:#000000\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #000000;color:#000000\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/makar-sankranti-date-timings-rituals\/#Makar_Sankranti_2026_Date_and_Timings\" >Makar Sankranti 2026 Date and Timings<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/makar-sankranti-date-timings-rituals\/#The_Meaning_Behind_Makar_Sankranti\" >The Meaning Behind Makar Sankranti<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/makar-sankranti-date-timings-rituals\/#Makar_Sankranti_Rituals\" >Makar Sankranti Rituals<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/makar-sankranti-date-timings-rituals\/#Regional_Celebrations\" >Regional Celebrations<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/makar-sankranti-date-timings-rituals\/#Spiritual_Significance_of_Makar_Sankranti\" >Spiritual Significance of Makar Sankranti<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/makar-sankranti-date-timings-rituals\/#Makar_Sankranti_Celebration_in_West_Bengal\" >Makar Sankranti Celebration in West Bengal<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/makar-sankranti-date-timings-rituals\/#Religious_and_Cultural_Significance\" >Religious and Cultural Significance<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/makar-sankranti-date-timings-rituals\/#Celebration_of_Makar_Sankranti\" >Celebration of Makar Sankranti<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/makar-sankranti-date-timings-rituals\/#Trending_FAQs\" >Trending FAQs:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Makar_Sankranti_2026_Date_and_Timings\"><\/span>Makar Sankranti 2026 Date and Timings<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Makar Sankranti will be celebrated on <strong><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-accent-color\">Wednesday, 14th January, 2026<\/mark><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Makar Sankranti Punya Kaal Muhurta<\/strong>: <strong><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-accent-color\">03:13 PM to 05:45 PM<\/mark>, <mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-contrast-color\">14th January<\/mark>, Wednesday<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration<\/strong>: 2 Hours 32 Minutes<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Makar Sankranti Maha Punya Kaal Muhurta<\/strong>: <strong><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-accent-color\">03:13 PM to 04:58 PM<\/mark>, <mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-contrast-color\">14th January<\/mark>, Wednesday<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration:<\/strong> 1 Hour 45 Minutes<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/makar-sankranti-date-1024x1024.webp\" alt=\"Makar Sankranti Date\" class=\"wp-image-1952\" style=\"width:500px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/makar-sankranti-date-1024x1024.webp 1024w, https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/makar-sankranti-date-300x300.webp 300w, https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/makar-sankranti-date-150x150.webp 150w, https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/makar-sankranti-date-768x768.webp 768w, https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/makar-sankranti-date.webp 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Makar Sankranti Date<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Every year, the date of this festival remains almost the same as it is based on the solar calendar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On this day, the Sun moves from the zodiac sign <a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sagittarius_(astrology)\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Sagittarius<\/a> (Dhanu Rashi) to <a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Capricorn_(astrology)\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Capricorn<\/a> (Makar Rashi), marking the beginning of the auspicious period known as <em>Uttarayan<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Meaning_Behind_Makar_Sankranti\"><\/span>The Meaning Behind Makar Sankranti<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The word \u201cMakar\u201d refers to Capricorn, and \u201cSankranti\u201d means the movement or transition of the Sun from one zodiac to another.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Therefore, Makar Sankranti signifies the Sun\u2019s transition into Capricorn, which symbolizes new beginnings, prosperity, and light.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is also considered a harvest festival, as it comes at the time when farmers reap their crops and thank the Sun for a good harvest season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Makar_Sankranti_Rituals\"><\/span>Makar Sankranti Rituals<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Makar Sankranti is celebrated in different ways across India, but a few customs remain common everywhere:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Taking a Holy Dip<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>Devotees take a bath in sacred rivers like the Ganga, Yamuna, or Godavari. It is believed that bathing on this day washes away sins and brings blessings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Offering Prayers to the Sun<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>People wake up early and offer <em>Arghya<\/em> (water) to the Sun God as a sign of gratitude.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Charity and Donation<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>Giving food, clothes, and grains to the needy is considered highly auspicious on this day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Delicious Sweets<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>Special dishes made of sesame seeds (til) and jaggery (gur) are prepared, such as tilgul, gajak, and chikki. These symbolize unity and sweetness in relationships.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">People Fly Colourful Kites<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>In many parts of India, especially Gujarat, Rajasthan and few parts of West Bengal, people celebrate by flying colorful kites that fill the sky, symbolizing freedom and happiness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Regional_Celebrations\"><\/span>Regional Celebrations<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Makar Sankranti is known by different names and celebrated uniquely across the country:<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/makar-sankranti-1024x1024.webp\" alt=\"Makar Sankranti\" class=\"wp-image-1954\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/makar-sankranti-1024x1024.webp 1024w, https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/makar-sankranti-300x300.webp 300w, https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/makar-sankranti-150x150.webp 150w, https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/makar-sankranti-768x768.webp 768w, https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/makar-sankranti.webp 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Makar Sankranti<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-accent-color\">Poush Sankranti<\/mark> <\/strong>in West Bengal \u2013 Celebrated with holy dips in rivers, traditional fairs like the <strong>Ganga Sagar Mela<\/strong>, and the preparation of sweet rice cakes called <strong>Pitha-Puli<\/strong> made from date palm jaggery and freshly harvested rice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/pongal-2026-date-rituals-significance\/\">Pongal<\/a><\/strong> in Tamil Nadu \u2013 A four-day harvest festival dedicated to the Sun God.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-accent-color\">Uttarayan<\/mark><\/strong> in Gujarat \u2013 Famous for its grand kite-flying tradition.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-accent-color\">Magh Bihu<\/mark><\/strong> in Assam \u2013 Celebrated with bonfires, feasts, and traditional songs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-accent-color\">Lohri<\/mark><\/strong> in Punjab \u2013 Marked with bonfires, dancing, and sharing of sweets.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-accent-color\">Khichdi Parv<\/mark><\/strong> in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar \u2013 People prepare khichdi and offer it to the poor and priests.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Spiritual_Significance_of_Makar_Sankranti\"><\/span>Spiritual Significance of Makar Sankranti<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Makar Sankranti holds deep spiritual and cosmic importance in Indian culture. It marks the beginning of Uttarayan, the period when the Sun starts its northward journey in the celestial sphere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This movement is considered highly auspicious, as it represents progress, enlightenment, and spiritual awakening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is believed that during Uttarayan, the Sun\u2019s rays carry positive and purifying energy, which helps to remove negativity and bring peace to the soul.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The festival teaches people to move from darkness toward light, both in a physical and spiritual sense \u2014 symbolizing the victory of wisdom over ignorance and truth over illusion.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/makar-sankranti-festival-1024x1024.webp\" alt=\"Makar Sankranti\" class=\"wp-image-1956\" style=\"width:500px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/makar-sankranti-festival-1024x1024.webp 1024w, https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/makar-sankranti-festival-300x300.webp 300w, https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/makar-sankranti-festival-150x150.webp 150w, https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/makar-sankranti-festival-768x768.webp 768w, https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/makar-sankranti-festival.webp 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Makar Sankranti<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>According to ancient Hindu scriptures, Makar Sankranti is also the time when the doors of heaven are opened, allowing souls to attain liberation (moksha).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The festival also encourages the practice of charity (daan), as giving to others during this time is said to cleanse one\u2019s karma and attract divine blessings. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On a deeper level, Makar Sankranti reminds us of the importance of balance in life – just as the Sun transitions into a new phase. It begins a new journey filled with hope, discipline, and positive energy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Makar_Sankranti_Celebration_in_West_Bengal\"><\/span>Makar Sankranti Celebration in West Bengal<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In <strong>West Bengal<\/strong>, Makar Sankranti is celebrated with great devotion, joy, and a strong connection to nature and tradition. It is popularly known as <strong>Poush Sankranti<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It falls on the last day of the Bengali month <strong>Poush<\/strong>. This day marks the end of the winter harvest season and is celebrated as a time of gratitude to Mother Earth for a successful crop yield.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Religious_and_Cultural_Significance\"><\/span>Religious and Cultural Significance<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In Bengal, Makar Sankranti holds both religious and cultural importance. People take early morning holy baths in rivers such as the <strong>Ganga<\/strong>, <strong>Damodar<\/strong>, and <strong>Hooghly<\/strong>. The people believe that it purifies the soul and washes away sins.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The famous Ganga Sagar Mela is held at <strong>Sagar Island<\/strong>, where the Ganga meets the Bay of Bengal. Thousands of devotees gather there to take a holy dip and offer prayers to Lord Surya (the Sun God) and Kapil Muni.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Celebration_of_Makar_Sankranti\"><\/span>Celebration of Makar Sankranti<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Even in today\u2019s busy world, Makar Sankranti continues to unite people. Families gather to prepare festive meals, exchange greetings, and enjoy community events.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is also a reminder to be thankful for nature\u2019s blessings and to share joy with others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Durga Puja Countdown is on <mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-accent-color\">Live<\/mark><\/h4>\n\n\n<a href=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\n<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/DURGA-PUJA-COUNTDOWN.webp\" alt=\"Durga Puja Countdown\" \/>\n<\/a>\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Trending_FAQs\"><\/span>Trending <mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-accent-color\">FAQs<\/mark>:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n<div id=\"rank-math-faq\" class=\"rank-math-block\">\n<div class=\"rank-math-list \">\n<div id=\"faq-question-1762497012361\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h5 class=\"rank-math-question \">Q. Why is Makar Sankranti celebrated?<\/h5>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>It marks the Sun\u2019s transition into Capricorn and the beginning of longer days, symbolizing light, prosperity and new beginnings.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1762497039129\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h5 class=\"rank-math-question \">Q. What are the main traditions of Makar Sankranti?<\/h5>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Common traditions include taking a holy dip, offering prayers to the Sun, preparing sweets made of sesame and jaggery, donating to the poor, and flying kites.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1762497056176\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h5 class=\"rank-math-question \">Q. What foods are prepared during Makar Sankranti?<\/h5>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Traditional dishes include tilgul, chikki, pongal, khichdi, and gajak, all made from sesame seeds, jaggery, and other winter ingredients.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1762497077898\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h5 class=\"rank-math-question \">Q. Is Makar Sankranti the same as Pongal or Lohri?<\/h5>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Yes, they are celebrated around the same time with different names and customs in various regions, all marking the harvest season and the Sun\u2019s transition.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Read More:<\/h6>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/pongal-2026-date-rituals-significance\/\">Pongal 2026 Date, Rituals and Significance: A Simple Guide<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/saraswati-puja-date-time-puja-vidhi\/\">Saraswati Puja 2026 Date, Time, Puja Vidhi and Puja Vandana<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/dev-uthani-ekadashi-date-rituals\/\">Dev Uthani Ekadashi 2025: Date, Rituals and Importance<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/rash-purnima-date-puja-vidhi\/#google_vignette\">Rash Purnima 2025 Date, Puja Vidhi and Significance<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Makar Sankranti is one of the most important and widely celebrated festivals in India. It marks the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer days. People across different states celebrate this day with various names and traditions, but the spirit of joy, gratitude, and togetherness remains the same. Makar Sankranti holds deep … <a title=\"Makar Sankranti 2026 Date, Timings, Rituals and Significance\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/makar-sankranti-date-timings-rituals\/\" aria-label=\"Read more about Makar Sankranti 2026 Date, Timings, Rituals and Significance\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1959,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[41,7,50,19],"class_list":["post-1943","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-date-time","tag-diwali","tag-durga-puja","tag-festival","tag-navratri"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1943","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1943"}],"version-history":[{"count":16,"href":"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1943\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1966,"href":"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1943\/revisions\/1966"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1959"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1943"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1943"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1943"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}

{"id":1943,"date":"2025-11-07T12:28:20","date_gmt":"2025-11-07T06:58:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/?p=1943"},"modified":"2025-11-07T13:29:35","modified_gmt":"2025-11-07T07:59:35","slug":"makar-sankranti-date-timings-rituals","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/makar-sankranti-date-timings-rituals\/","title":{"rendered":"Makar Sankranti 2026 Date, Timings, Rituals and Significance"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Makar Sankranti is one of the most important and widely celebrated festivals in India. It marks the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

People across different states celebrate this day with various names and traditions, but the spirit of joy, gratitude, and togetherness remains the same.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Makar Sankranti holds deep spiritual and cosmic importance in Indian culture. It marks the beginning of Uttarayan, the period when the Sun starts its northward journey in the celestial sphere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This movement is considered highly auspicious, as it represents progress, enlightenment, and spiritual awakening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n Telegram CTA<\/title>\n <style>\n .telegram-cta {\n background: linear-gradient(135deg, #236dc6, #00a8ff);\n color: #fff;\n padding: 10px 16px;\n border-radius: 6px;\n display: flex;\n align-items: center;\n justify-content: space-between;\n font-family: 'Segoe UI', Roboto, sans-serif;\n font-size: 15px;\n margin: 20px 0;\n box-shadow: 0 4px 12px rgba(35, 109, 198, 0.2);\n flex-wrap: nowrap;\n gap: 12px;\n overflow-x: auto;\n }\n\n .cta-text {\n flex-grow: 1;\n white-space: nowrap;\n overflow: hidden;\n text-overflow: ellipsis;\n }\n\n .telegram-btn {\n display: inline-flex;\n align-items: center;\n background-color: #236dc6;\n color: white;\n text-decoration: none;\n padding: 8px 14px;\n border-radius: 5px;\n font-weight: 600;\n transition: background 0.3s ease;\n white-space: nowrap;\n flex-shrink: 0;\n }\n\n .telegram-btn:hover {\n background-color: #1c59a8;\n }\n\n .telegram-logo {\n width: 18px;\n height: 18px;\n margin-right: 6px;\n }\n <\/style>\n<\/head>\n<body>\n\n \n <div class=\"telegram-cta\">\n <span class=\"cta-text\">Get all Puja updates! Join With Us<\/span>\n <a href=\"https:\/\/t.me\/durgapujacountdn\" class=\"telegram-btn\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\n <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/telegram.org\/img\/t_logo.png\" alt=\"Telegram\" class=\"telegram-logo\" \/>\n Join Now\n <\/a>\n <\/div>\n\n<\/body>\n<\/html>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_82_2 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #000000;color:#000000\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #000000;color:#000000\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/makar-sankranti-date-timings-rituals\/#Makar_Sankranti_2026_Date_and_Timings\" >Makar Sankranti 2026 Date and Timings<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/makar-sankranti-date-timings-rituals\/#The_Meaning_Behind_Makar_Sankranti\" >The Meaning Behind Makar Sankranti<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/makar-sankranti-date-timings-rituals\/#Makar_Sankranti_Rituals\" >Makar Sankranti Rituals<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/makar-sankranti-date-timings-rituals\/#Regional_Celebrations\" >Regional Celebrations<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/makar-sankranti-date-timings-rituals\/#Spiritual_Significance_of_Makar_Sankranti\" >Spiritual Significance of Makar Sankranti<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/makar-sankranti-date-timings-rituals\/#Makar_Sankranti_Celebration_in_West_Bengal\" >Makar Sankranti Celebration in West Bengal<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/makar-sankranti-date-timings-rituals\/#Religious_and_Cultural_Significance\" >Religious and Cultural Significance<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/makar-sankranti-date-timings-rituals\/#Celebration_of_Makar_Sankranti\" >Celebration of Makar Sankranti<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/makar-sankranti-date-timings-rituals\/#Trending_FAQs\" >Trending FAQs:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Makar_Sankranti_2026_Date_and_Timings\"><\/span>Makar Sankranti 2026 Date and Timings<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Makar Sankranti will be celebrated on <strong><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-accent-color\">Wednesday, 14th January, 2026<\/mark><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Makar Sankranti Punya Kaal Muhurta<\/strong>: <strong><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-accent-color\">03:13 PM to 05:45 PM<\/mark>, <mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-contrast-color\">14th January<\/mark>, Wednesday<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration<\/strong>: 2 Hours 32 Minutes<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Makar Sankranti Maha Punya Kaal Muhurta<\/strong>: <strong><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-accent-color\">03:13 PM to 04:58 PM<\/mark>, <mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-contrast-color\">14th January<\/mark>, Wednesday<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration:<\/strong> 1 Hour 45 Minutes<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/makar-sankranti-date-1024x1024.webp\" alt=\"Makar Sankranti Date\" class=\"wp-image-1952\" style=\"width:500px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/makar-sankranti-date-1024x1024.webp 1024w, https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/makar-sankranti-date-300x300.webp 300w, https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/makar-sankranti-date-150x150.webp 150w, https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/makar-sankranti-date-768x768.webp 768w, https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/makar-sankranti-date.webp 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Makar Sankranti Date<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Every year, the date of this festival remains almost the same as it is based on the solar calendar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On this day, the Sun moves from the zodiac sign <a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sagittarius_(astrology)\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Sagittarius<\/a> (Dhanu Rashi) to <a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Capricorn_(astrology)\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Capricorn<\/a> (Makar Rashi), marking the beginning of the auspicious period known as <em>Uttarayan<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Meaning_Behind_Makar_Sankranti\"><\/span>The Meaning Behind Makar Sankranti<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The word \u201cMakar\u201d refers to Capricorn, and \u201cSankranti\u201d means the movement or transition of the Sun from one zodiac to another.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Therefore, Makar Sankranti signifies the Sun\u2019s transition into Capricorn, which symbolizes new beginnings, prosperity, and light.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is also considered a harvest festival, as it comes at the time when farmers reap their crops and thank the Sun for a good harvest season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Makar_Sankranti_Rituals\"><\/span>Makar Sankranti Rituals<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Makar Sankranti is celebrated in different ways across India, but a few customs remain common everywhere:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Taking a Holy Dip<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>Devotees take a bath in sacred rivers like the Ganga, Yamuna, or Godavari. It is believed that bathing on this day washes away sins and brings blessings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Offering Prayers to the Sun<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>People wake up early and offer <em>Arghya<\/em> (water) to the Sun God as a sign of gratitude.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Charity and Donation<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>Giving food, clothes, and grains to the needy is considered highly auspicious on this day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Delicious Sweets<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>Special dishes made of sesame seeds (til) and jaggery (gur) are prepared, such as tilgul, gajak, and chikki. These symbolize unity and sweetness in relationships.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">People Fly Colourful Kites<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>In many parts of India, especially Gujarat, Rajasthan and few parts of West Bengal, people celebrate by flying colorful kites that fill the sky, symbolizing freedom and happiness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Regional_Celebrations\"><\/span>Regional Celebrations<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Makar Sankranti is known by different names and celebrated uniquely across the country:<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/makar-sankranti-1024x1024.webp\" alt=\"Makar Sankranti\" class=\"wp-image-1954\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/makar-sankranti-1024x1024.webp 1024w, https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/makar-sankranti-300x300.webp 300w, https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/makar-sankranti-150x150.webp 150w, https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/makar-sankranti-768x768.webp 768w, https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/makar-sankranti.webp 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Makar Sankranti<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-accent-color\">Poush Sankranti<\/mark> <\/strong>in West Bengal \u2013 Celebrated with holy dips in rivers, traditional fairs like the <strong>Ganga Sagar Mela<\/strong>, and the preparation of sweet rice cakes called <strong>Pitha-Puli<\/strong> made from date palm jaggery and freshly harvested rice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/pongal-2026-date-rituals-significance\/\">Pongal<\/a><\/strong> in Tamil Nadu \u2013 A four-day harvest festival dedicated to the Sun God.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-accent-color\">Uttarayan<\/mark><\/strong> in Gujarat \u2013 Famous for its grand kite-flying tradition.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-accent-color\">Magh Bihu<\/mark><\/strong> in Assam \u2013 Celebrated with bonfires, feasts, and traditional songs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-accent-color\">Lohri<\/mark><\/strong> in Punjab \u2013 Marked with bonfires, dancing, and sharing of sweets.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-accent-color\">Khichdi Parv<\/mark><\/strong> in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar \u2013 People prepare khichdi and offer it to the poor and priests.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Spiritual_Significance_of_Makar_Sankranti\"><\/span>Spiritual Significance of Makar Sankranti<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Makar Sankranti holds deep spiritual and cosmic importance in Indian culture. It marks the beginning of Uttarayan, the period when the Sun starts its northward journey in the celestial sphere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This movement is considered highly auspicious, as it represents progress, enlightenment, and spiritual awakening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is believed that during Uttarayan, the Sun\u2019s rays carry positive and purifying energy, which helps to remove negativity and bring peace to the soul.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The festival teaches people to move from darkness toward light, both in a physical and spiritual sense \u2014 symbolizing the victory of wisdom over ignorance and truth over illusion.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/makar-sankranti-festival-1024x1024.webp\" alt=\"Makar Sankranti\" class=\"wp-image-1956\" style=\"width:500px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/makar-sankranti-festival-1024x1024.webp 1024w, https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/makar-sankranti-festival-300x300.webp 300w, https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/makar-sankranti-festival-150x150.webp 150w, https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/makar-sankranti-festival-768x768.webp 768w, https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/makar-sankranti-festival.webp 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Makar Sankranti<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>According to ancient Hindu scriptures, Makar Sankranti is also the time when the doors of heaven are opened, allowing souls to attain liberation (moksha).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The festival also encourages the practice of charity (daan), as giving to others during this time is said to cleanse one\u2019s karma and attract divine blessings. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On a deeper level, Makar Sankranti reminds us of the importance of balance in life – just as the Sun transitions into a new phase. It begins a new journey filled with hope, discipline, and positive energy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Makar_Sankranti_Celebration_in_West_Bengal\"><\/span>Makar Sankranti Celebration in West Bengal<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In <strong>West Bengal<\/strong>, Makar Sankranti is celebrated with great devotion, joy, and a strong connection to nature and tradition. It is popularly known as <strong>Poush Sankranti<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It falls on the last day of the Bengali month <strong>Poush<\/strong>. This day marks the end of the winter harvest season and is celebrated as a time of gratitude to Mother Earth for a successful crop yield.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Religious_and_Cultural_Significance\"><\/span>Religious and Cultural Significance<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In Bengal, Makar Sankranti holds both religious and cultural importance. People take early morning holy baths in rivers such as the <strong>Ganga<\/strong>, <strong>Damodar<\/strong>, and <strong>Hooghly<\/strong>. The people believe that it purifies the soul and washes away sins.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The famous Ganga Sagar Mela is held at <strong>Sagar Island<\/strong>, where the Ganga meets the Bay of Bengal. Thousands of devotees gather there to take a holy dip and offer prayers to Lord Surya (the Sun God) and Kapil Muni.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Celebration_of_Makar_Sankranti\"><\/span>Celebration of Makar Sankranti<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Even in today\u2019s busy world, Makar Sankranti continues to unite people. Families gather to prepare festive meals, exchange greetings, and enjoy community events.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is also a reminder to be thankful for nature\u2019s blessings and to share joy with others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Durga Puja Countdown is on <mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-accent-color\">Live<\/mark><\/h4>\n\n\n<a href=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\n<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/DURGA-PUJA-COUNTDOWN.webp\" alt=\"Durga Puja Countdown\" \/>\n<\/a>\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Trending_FAQs\"><\/span>Trending <mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-accent-color\">FAQs<\/mark>:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n<div id=\"rank-math-faq\" class=\"rank-math-block\">\n<div class=\"rank-math-list \">\n<div id=\"faq-question-1762497012361\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h5 class=\"rank-math-question \">Q. Why is Makar Sankranti celebrated?<\/h5>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>It marks the Sun\u2019s transition into Capricorn and the beginning of longer days, symbolizing light, prosperity and new beginnings.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1762497039129\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h5 class=\"rank-math-question \">Q. What are the main traditions of Makar Sankranti?<\/h5>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Common traditions include taking a holy dip, offering prayers to the Sun, preparing sweets made of sesame and jaggery, donating to the poor, and flying kites.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1762497056176\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h5 class=\"rank-math-question \">Q. What foods are prepared during Makar Sankranti?<\/h5>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Traditional dishes include tilgul, chikki, pongal, khichdi, and gajak, all made from sesame seeds, jaggery, and other winter ingredients.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1762497077898\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h5 class=\"rank-math-question \">Q. Is Makar Sankranti the same as Pongal or Lohri?<\/h5>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Yes, they are celebrated around the same time with different names and customs in various regions, all marking the harvest season and the Sun\u2019s transition.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Read More:<\/h6>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/pongal-2026-date-rituals-significance\/\">Pongal 2026 Date, Rituals and Significance: A Simple Guide<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/saraswati-puja-date-time-puja-vidhi\/\">Saraswati Puja 2026 Date, Time, Puja Vidhi and Puja Vandana<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/dev-uthani-ekadashi-date-rituals\/\">Dev Uthani Ekadashi 2025: Date, Rituals and Importance<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/rash-purnima-date-puja-vidhi\/#google_vignette\">Rash Purnima 2025 Date, Puja Vidhi and Significance<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Makar Sankranti is one of the most important and widely celebrated festivals in India. It marks the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer days. People across different states celebrate this day with various names and traditions, but the spirit of joy, gratitude, and togetherness remains the same. Makar Sankranti holds deep … <a title=\"Makar Sankranti 2026 Date, Timings, Rituals and Significance\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/makar-sankranti-date-timings-rituals\/\" aria-label=\"Read more about Makar Sankranti 2026 Date, Timings, Rituals and Significance\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1959,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[41,7,50,19],"class_list":["post-1943","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-date-time","tag-diwali","tag-durga-puja","tag-festival","tag-navratri"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1943","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1943"}],"version-history":[{"count":16,"href":"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1943\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1966,"href":"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1943\/revisions\/1966"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1959"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1943"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1943"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/durgapujacountdown.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1943"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}