Makar Sankranti 2025: Significance, Celebrations, and Timings You Need to Know

Makar Sankranti is a vibrant festival that holds great cultural, religious, and agricultural significance, celebrated with immense joy and devotion across India. From the colorful kites flying in Gujarat to the heartfelt prayers in Uttar Pradesh and the delicious Pongal festivities in Tamil Nadu, Makar Sankranti unites communities in a celebration of the Sun’s warmth and the promise of a fruitful harvest.

The Punya Kaal, which is the most auspicious time for rituals and prayers, will last from 9:03 AM to 5:46 PM on January 14, 2025. This 8-hour and 43-minute window is considered ideal for making offerings to the Sun God, performing acts of charity, and conducting various religious ceremonies. It truly is a wonderful opportunity for spiritual reflection and community celebration.

Makar Sankranti signifies the Sun’s transition from the zodiac sign of Sagittarius (Dhanu) to Capricorn (Makar), which is why it is celebrated as Makar Sankranti. The festival marks the end of winter and the start of the harvest season. 

Makar Sankranti 2025: Significance  

Makar Sankranti is one of the few Indian festivals based on the solar calendar, giving it a fixed date in the Gregorian calendar. It signifies the beginning of Uttarayana, an auspicious period in Hinduism. 

The day represents new beginnings, growth, and prosperity, making it a time for people to anticipate brighter days ahead. It also marks the start of the harvest season, particularly for rabi crops like wheat, barley, and mustard. Farmers celebrate the festival to express gratitude for a successful harvest.

Makar Sankranti 2025: Rituals  

Taking a Holy Dip  

A common tradition is taking a holy dip in rivers, especially in sacred ones like the Ganges and Yamuna, to cleanse oneself of sins. The Ganga Snaan is particularly popular in places like Haridwar, Prayagraj, and Varanasi.

Offering Prayers to the Sun  

Makar Sankranti is dedicated to the Sun God, and people offer prayers to seek his blessings for health, wealth, and prosperity. During these prayers, offerings of til, gur, and other food items are made.

Donating and Charity  

On Makar Sankranti, many engage in charitable acts by donating items such as clothes, grains, and sweets to those in need. It is believed that donations made on this day bring good fortune and blessings.

Flying Kites  

One of the unique traditions of Makar Sankranti is kite flying, especially in states like Gujarat and Rajasthan. People come together on their rooftops to fly vibrant kites, and many even take part in friendly competitions.

Bonfires and Festive Foods  

In certain regions of India, people light bonfires to symbolize the end of winter and the triumph of light over darkness. This is especially prevalent in states like Maharashtra and Punjab. During Makar Sankranti, special dishes are made, often including sweets made from sesame and jaggery, such as tilgul, til laddoos, and Puran Poli. These treats are shared with loved ones as a gesture of sweetness and goodwill.

Makar Sankranti is celebrated across various states in India, each with its own unique name and customs. Here are some of the states and their official names for the festival:

1. Gujarat: Uttarayan

   – In Gujarat, Makar Sankranti is celebrated as Uttarayan, marked by the famous kite-flying festival. People of all ages come together to fly colorful kites, and the skies are filled with vibrant hues. It’s a time of joy, competition, and community gatherings.

2. Maharashtra: Makar Sankranti

   – In Maharashtra, the festival is also known as Makar Sankranti. People celebrate by preparing traditional sweets made of sesame seeds and jaggery, such as tilgul, and exchanging them with friends and family. It’s a time for social bonding and festivities.

3. Uttar Pradesh: Makar Sankranti

   – In Uttar Pradesh, Makar Sankranti is celebrated with religious fervor. People take holy dips in rivers, especially the Ganges, and offer prayers to the Sun God. It’s also a time for community feasts and fairs.

4. Tamil Nadu: Pongal

   – In Tamil Nadu, Makar Sankranti is celebrated as Pongal. This multi-day festival involves cooking a special dish called Pongal, made of rice and lentils, which is offered to the Sun God. The festivities include traditional dances, music, and various cultural events.

5. Karnataka: Pongal

   – Similar to Tamil Nadu, Karnataka also celebrates Makar Sankranti as Pongal. The festival is marked by the preparation of sweet Pongal and various cultural activities, showcasing the rich heritage of the state.

6. Andhra Pradesh and Telangana: Sankranti

   – In Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, Makar Sankranti is celebrated as Sankranti. It is a time for family gatherings, special prayers, and preparing traditional dishes. The festival is also marked by colorful rangoli designs in front of homes.

Each of these celebrations reflects the local culture and traditions, making Makar Sankranti a truly diverse and unifying festival across India.