Makar Sankranti 2026 is one of the most important Hindu festivals, marking the transition of the Sun into the Capricorn zodiac sign (Makara Rashi). This sacred festival symbolizes the end of winter solstice and the beginning of longer, brighter days. In 2026, Makar Sankranti is considered extra special due to a rare astrological combination forming after 23 years.
Makar Sankranti 2026 Date and Day
- Makar Sankranti 2026 Date: 14 January 2026
- Makar Sankranti 2026 Day: Wednesday
- When is Makar Sankranti 2026? It will be celebrated on Wednesday, 14th January 2026 across India and many parts of the world.
People often ask which date Makar Sankranti 2026 falls on, and the answer is clearly 14 January 2026.
Makar Sankranti 2026 Tithi and Time
Unlike other Hindu festivals based on the lunar calendar, Makar Sankranti is determined by the solar calendar.
- Makar Sankranti 2026 Tithi: The festival occurs when the Sun enters Makara Rashi (Capricorn)
- Makar Sankranti 2026 Date and Time: The Sun’s transit into Capricorn takes place on 14 January 2026, marking the official Sankranti moment.
This solar transition also signifies the beginning of Uttarayan, which is considered highly auspicious in Hindu tradition.
Rare Mahasanyog on Makar Sankranti 2026
In 2026, Makar Sankranti coincides with Shattila Ekadashi, creating a powerful Mahasanyog after 23 years. The last time this rare combination occurred was in 2003.
On this day:
- Sun God enters Saturn’s sign (Capricorn)
- Sun and Saturn form a strong spiritual alignment
- Worship of Lord Vishnu and Lord Surya becomes highly rewarding
This rare yog enhances spiritual merit, charity, and long-term prosperity.
Shattila Ekadashi Significance on Makar Sankranti 2026
Shattila Ekadashi holds special importance, especially when it falls on Makar Sankranti. Sesame seeds (til) play a key role in both occasions.
- Charity of sesame seeds, food, and clothes is considered highly auspicious
- Devotees observe fasting and avoid grains
- Til-based rituals bring relief from past karmic burdens
Even though sesame sweets are common on Sankranti, Ekadashi fasting rules are followed strictly by devotees.
Zodiac Signs Benefiting on Makar Sankranti 2026
Astrologically, Makar Sankranti 2026 will bring positive changes for certain zodiac signs due to the favorable Sun–Saturn alignment.
Taurus (Vrishabha Rashi)
- Increase in material comfort and financial stability
- New responsibilities at work may lead to long-term gains
- Success in planned projects is likely
Sagittarius (Dhanu Rashi)
- Career growth and new opportunities
- Support from influential people
- Mental peace and relief from ongoing stress
Scorpio (Vrishchik Rashi)
- Growth in income and business
- Favorable time for property or vehicle purchase
- Sudden financial support for education or investments
Makar Sankranti 2026 in Marathi Tradition
Makar Sankranti 2026 Marathi celebrations include exchanging tilgul with the greeting “Tilgul ghya, god god bola”. In Maharashtra, the festival represents harmony, sweetness in relationships, and new beginnings.
Women celebrate Haldi-Kumkum, and families prepare traditional sweets made from sesame and jaggery.
Makar Sankranti 2026 USA and Global Celebrations
Makar Sankranti 2026 USA will also be observed by Hindu communities with cultural programs, temple prayers, and kite-flying events. Though the date remains 14 January 2026, local timings may vary slightly due to time zone differences.
Significance of Makar Sankranti 2026
- Marks Sun’s northward journey (Uttarayan)
- Auspicious for charity, rituals, and new beginnings
- Spiritually powerful due to rare planetary alignment
- Encourages positivity, discipline, and gratitude
