Makar Sankranti 2026:Know the New Puja and Daan Guidelines

New Delhi: Makar Sankranti is celebrated with great enthusiasm every year. On this day, the sun god enters Capricorn and Uttarayan begins. But this time Sankranti is not normal. Along with Sankranti, Shattila Ekadashi is also falling on 14th January, due to which there is a slight change in the rules of worship and charity.

What is the exact date of Makar Sankranti?

According to the Panchang, the Sun will enter Capricorn on the morning of January 14. For this reason Makar Sankranti will be celebrated only on 14th January. Astrologers believe that bathing, worshiping and donating on this day give special results.

What is the relation of Shattila Ekadashi with Sankranti?

This time Shattila Ekadashi is also on the day of Sankranti. This fast is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is considered very auspicious. But during this fast, consumption and donation of rice and things made from it are prohibited. This is where confusion arises.

Why should Khichdi not be donated on 14th January?

The tradition of donating Khichdi on Makar Sankranti is very old. Generally people donate khichdi made of rice, pulses, and sesame seeds. But since this time it is Ekadashi on the same day, using rice is not considered appropriate as per the scriptures. For this reason, it has been advised to avoid donating Khichdi on January 14.

Then when would it be right to donate khichdi?

According to astrological calculations, Ekadashi Tithi will end after around 5:50 pm on 14th January. After this, making Khichdi and donating it on 15th January will be considered completely auspicious and right. For those who want to follow tradition, this is a better option.

What can be donated on January 14th?

If you want to donate on the day of Sankranti itself, you can donate sesame, jaggery, wheat, peanuts, clothes, blankets, or warm items. All these things are useful to the needy people in this season and are also considered auspicious religiously.

What is the religious significance of this coincidence?

Sankranti marks the beginning of the new direction of the Sun, while Shattila Ekadashi is considered an opportunity for self-purification and earning virtue. When both come together, its importance increases further. It is believed that donations and worship done on this day give manifold results.