What does “Sankranti” mean?
“Sankranti” is a transition — commonly used for the Sun moving into a new zodiac sign.
Since there are 12 zodiac signs, Sankranti is observed 12 times a year (roughly once a month).
Different regions consider different Sankrantis significant. The best-known is Makara Sankranti.
“Sankranti comes once in month. Makrsankranti is once in year. Makarsankranti is most important Sankranti.”
We kept this core message and expanded it into a clean, modern guide.
12 Sankrantis in a year
A handy list (approximate season / month — actual dates can shift slightly each year).
| Sankranti (Sun enters) | Zodiac sign | Approx time of year | Quick note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Makara Sankranti | Capricorn | Mid‑January | Most celebrated; harvest + kites + sweets. |
| Kumbha Sankranti | Aquarius | Mid‑February | Often observed with bathing/charity in some regions. |
| Meena Sankranti | Pisces | Mid‑March | Seasonal transition toward spring. |
| Mesha Sankranti | Aries | Mid‑April | In many places, linked with local new year traditions. |
| Vrishabha Sankranti | Taurus | Mid‑May | Summer begins; charity and simple prayers. |
| Mithuna Sankranti | Gemini | Mid‑June | Monsoon season approaches in many regions. |
| Karka Sankranti | Cancer | Mid‑July | Often observed with seasonal puja/fasts. |
| Simha Sankranti | Leo | Mid‑August | Monsoon continues; regional customs vary. |
| Kanya Sankranti | Virgo | Mid‑September | Transition toward autumn in many places. |
| Tula Sankranti | Libra | Mid‑October | Festival season energy; customs vary. |
| Vrischika Sankranti | Scorpio | Mid‑November | Cooling season; prayers/charity are common themes. |
| Dhanu Sankranti | Sagittarius | Mid‑December | Winter; many prepare for the big Makara celebration. |
These are solar transitions—so the exact calendar date can differ a bit year to year (and by regional calendars).
Makara Sankranti spotlight
The Sankranti most people think of: a celebration of warmth, harvest, and togetherness.
Terraces fill with color, snacks, music, and friendly competition.
- Try a “kite + chai” evening moment
- Use safe, bird-friendly materials
Sesame and jaggery sweets are shared to spread warmth and speak kindly.
Many communities focus on thanks—food, family, and the people/animals that make harvest possible.
- Donation of grains/clothes
- Share sweets with neighbors
Depending on region, Makara aligns with harvest festivals like Pongal (often a multi-day celebration), plus other regional names and customs.
Want this page to include the 3-day Pongal timeline too? You already have a dedicated page for that — we can cross-link it here.
Cards, messages & shareables
Quick links similar to the original page—so visitors can send wishes instantly.
FAQ
Is Sankranti only Makara Sankranti?
No — “Sankranti” occurs monthly. Makara is simply the most widely celebrated and recognized.
Why is Makara Sankranti celebrated so widely?
It aligns with seasonal change, harvest gratitude, and many regional traditions (kites, sweets, temple visits, and multi-day Pongal in parts of South India).
When is MakarSankranti Pongal and Lohri
Lohri is on Jan 14. Makarsankranti is on Jan 14, Pongal is on Jan 14 and Jan 15
When are Pongal Dates
Bhogi Pongal - Jan 13, Thai Pongal (Main) - Jan 14 (rarelyon Jan 15), Mattu Pongal - Jan 15 (or rarely an 16), Kannum Pongal Jan 16 (or rarely on Jan 17)