About Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti is a pan-India harvest festival that marks the sun's transition into the zodiac sign of Capricorn, known as Makara in Sanskrit. It signals the end of the winter solstice period and the start of longer, warmer days, celebrated as a time of renewal, gratitude and new beginnings. Dedicated in spirit to the Sun god Surya, it is one of the most widely observed festivals across the Indian subcontinent.
Celebrations vary richly by region, taking forms such as Pongal in Tamil Nadu, Lohri in the north, Uttarayan in Gujarat and Bihu in Assam. Common traditions include flying colourful kites, sharing til-gud sweets made of sesame and jaggery, and taking holy dips in sacred rivers such as the Ganga. Bonfires, feasts, fairs and prayers of thanksgiving for the harvest bring families and communities together.
Makar Sankranti is one of the few Hindu festivals tied to a fixed solar date, falling around mid-January each year, usually on or near the 14th or 15th. Because it follows the solar calendar, its date stays steady from year to year. The live countdown above tracks the next Makar Sankranti for you. You can also add this countdown to your own page and share the celebration with others.
Upcoming dates
| 2027 | Thursday, January 14, 2027next |
| 2028 | Saturday, January 15, 2028 |
| 2029 | Sunday, January 14, 2029 |
FAQ
When is Makar Sankranti this year and what date does it fall on?
Makar Sankranti falls around mid-January each year, usually on or near the 14th or 15th. As one of the few festivals set by the solar calendar its date is very stable, but check the live countdown above for the next exact date.
Why is Makar Sankranti celebrated?
Makar Sankranti marks the sun's entry into Capricorn and the start of longer days after winter. It is a harvest festival of thanksgiving, honouring the Sun god Surya and celebrating renewal.
How is Makar Sankranti celebrated?
People fly kites, share sesame-and-jaggery sweets called til-gud, take holy dips in sacred rivers and light bonfires. The festival is marked under many regional names with feasts, fairs and prayers.
Why do people fly kites on Makar Sankranti?
Kite-flying is a joyful tradition associated with Makar Sankranti, especially in states like Gujarat. It is linked to welcoming the sun and enjoying the bright winter skies, turning the festival into a vibrant communal spectacle.