Every year as January approaches, one common question appears in calendars, households, and community discussions: Is Makar Sankranti on January 14 or January 15?

For 2026, the answer is clearer than usual, as both astronomical calculations and religious traditions align closely. Here is a complete explanation of when Makar Sankranti falls in 2026, why the date is fixed, and how the festival is celebrated across India.

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What Is Makar Sankranti?

Makar Sankranti is one of the oldest and most widely celebrated festivals in India. It marks the moment when the Sun enters Makara Rashi (Capricorn), ending its southward journey (Dakshinayan) and beginning its northward movement (Uttarayan).

This solar transition is considered highly auspicious and symbolizes:

• Hope and renewal
• Spiritual awakening
• Prosperity and abundance

Unlike most Hindu festivals that follow the lunar calendar, Makar Sankranti is based on a solar event, which is why it usually occurs around January 14 every year.

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Is Makar Sankranti on January 14 or 15 in 2026?

In 2026, Makar Sankranti will be celebrated on:

Wednesday, January 14, 2026

According to astronomical calculations, the Sun enters Makara Rashi at approximately 3:13 PM IST on January 14. Since this transition happens well before sunset, the festival is observed on the same day.

All major rituals—such as holy baths, Surya Puja, daan (charity), and festive meals—will therefore be performed on January 14, not January 15.

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Why Do Some People Still Mention January 15?

The confusion around dates arises due to regional traditions and different calendar systems. In some years:

• The Sun enters Makara very late at night
• Rituals may shift to the next day based on sunrise or local customs

However, in 2026, the solar transition occurs clearly during daytime. As a result, there is no strong religious or astronomical reason to move the celebration to January 15.

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Makar Sankranti 2026 Timings at a Glance

• Date: Wednesday, January 14, 2026
• Sun’s entry into Makara Rashi: Around 3:13 PM IST
• Observance: Same day, before sunset

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How Makar Sankranti Is Celebrated Across India

Although the date is the same, the customs and names of the festival vary by region.

Northern and Western India

In states like Gujarat and Rajasthan, the festival is celebrated as Uttarayan, famous for colorful kite flying. Homes are filled with traditional sweets made from sesame and jaggery.

Southern India

In Tamil Nadu, the festival is celebrated as Pongal, a multi-day harvest celebration that honors the Sun, nature, and cattle.

Eastern and Northeastern India

In Assam, the festival is known as Magh Bihu, while in West Bengal, it is celebrated as Poush Parbon, marked by community feasts and traditional sweets.

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Common Rituals Observed Nationwide

Across India, Makar Sankranti is associated with:

• Sacred river baths
• Worship of Surya (Sun God)
• Acts of charity and donation
• Preparing and sharing seasonal foods

Popular festive foods include til laddoos, khichdi, jaggery-based sweets, and rice dishes, symbolizing warmth, harmony, and gratitude.

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Bottom Line

Makar Sankranti in 2026 will be celebrated on January 14, with rituals, pujas, charity, festive food, and joyful gatherings across India.

While some references may still mention January 15 due to traditional calendar variations, astronomically and officially, the festival belongs to January 14 this year.

As always, Makar Sankranti remains a celebration of light, renewal, generosity, and togetherness, uniting communities across regions and cultures.