Makar Sankranti, also known as the Capricorn Festival, is a major Hindu festival celebrated annually. It signifies the Sun's transition from the zodiac sign Sagittarius (Dhanu) to Capricorn (Makar), marking the shift of the Sun into the northern hemisphere. Observed on 14th January every year (or 15th January in a leap year), the festival is dedicated to the solar deity, Surya. In 2025, Makar Sankranti will fall on Tuesday, 14th January.
The festival holds great spiritual and cultural importance. Makar Sankranti is seen as a time of renewal and positivity. Dedicated to Lord Surya, it is believed to bring good fortune and mark the end of the winter solstice. This period also heralds the arrival of longer days and the beginning of the month of Magha in the Hindu calendar. The festival is closely linked to agricultural cycles, celebrating the harvest season in India.
Makar Sankranti rituals vary across India but typically include:
Makar Sankranti is celebrated under various names and traditions across India:
Each region brings its unique cultural touch to the festivities.
Makar Sankranti is also observed in other countries under different names, such as Songkran in Thailand, Thingyan in Myanmar, and Mohan Songkran in Cambodia.
Giving donations (daan) on Makar Sankranti is considered highly auspicious and can be personalized based on your zodiac sign to bring good fortune and positivity. Here are specific suggestions for each sign:
| Zodiac Sign? | Suggested Daan? | Cultural Significance?? |
|---|---|---|
| Aries? ? | Donate clothes or books | Represents new beginnings and growth |
| Taurus?? | Offer food items like rice or pulses | Symbolizes abundance and nourishment?? |
| Gemini?? | Contribute to educational causes | Encourages knowledge sharing and communication?? |
| Cancer? | Donate to orphanages or shelters?? | Reflects compassion and care for others?? |
| Leo? | Give away items related to arts or crafts? | Enhances creativity and self-expression |
| Virgo?? | Provide medical supplies or hygiene products | Promotes health and well-being?? |
| Libra? | Support community welfare programs?? | Fosters balance and harmony in society? |
| Scorpio? | Donate to environmental causes? | Represents transformation and regeneration? ? ? |
| Sagittarius? ? | Offer travel vouchers or experiences to underprivileged children? | Encourages exploration and learning |
| Capricorn? | Invest in local businesses or artisans | Supports hard work and perseverance?? |
| Aquarius? | Contribute to social justice initiatives? | Aligns with humanitarian values?? |
| Pisces? | Donate to mental health organizations? ? | Supports healing and emotional well-being |
Unlike other Hindu festivals, where black is avoided, wearing black on Makar Sankranti is considered auspicious in some regions. This practice is rooted in scientific beliefs: black absorbs heat and helps retain warmth during the chilly January weather. While this tradition is fading, it is still common to see women wearing black sarees with unique designs like Chandrakala during the celebrations.
Makar Sankranti is not just a religious event; it is a celebration of nature, agriculture, and community. The festival brings families together, strengthens bonds, and promotes cultural unity across India.
This Makar Sankranti 2025, take time to reflect on its significance, enjoy its rituals, and embrace the spirit of gratitude and togetherness.