The Hindu calendar for January 2026 is packed with significant festivals, fasts, and spiritually auspicious days. This month marks a period of transition and celebration, particularly with the sun's movement into the Capricorn zodiac sign, known as Makar Sankranti or Uttarayan. For devotees across India, this is a time for prayer, observance, and joyous community gatherings.
Major Festivals and Celebrations in January 2026
The first month of 2026 holds immense cultural and religious importance. January 14, 2026, is the key date for Makar Sankranti, a festival celebrated under various names nationwide. This solar event signifies the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer days. In South India, it coincides with the multi-day harvest festival of Pongal. In the North, it is celebrated as Khichdi or simply Sankranti, with rituals involving holy dips in rivers, donations, and feasting on sesame and jaggery-based foods.
Another prominent observance is Lohri, which falls on January 13, 2026. Predominantly celebrated in Punjab and surrounding regions, Lohri is a vibrant festival marking the end of winter. It involves bonfires, traditional folk songs and dances like Bhangra and Gidda, and the sharing of rewari, gajak, and popcorn. It is a night of community warmth and celebration on the eve of Sankranti.
Important Vrat (Fasting) Dates and Pujas
The Hindu calendar for January 2026 includes several important days for fasting and worship. January 10, 2026, is observed as Vaikuntha Ekadashi, one of the most sacred Ekadashis for Lord Vishnu devotees. Fasting on this day is believed to grant liberation and is marked by special prayers and temple visits, particularly to those with 'Swarga Dwar' or celestial gateways.
The month also features the Pradosh Vrat on January 11 (Krishna Paksha) and January 26 (Shukla Paksha). This fast, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is observed on the Trayodashi (13th day) of both lunar fortnights. Additionally, Sakat Chauth or Ganesh Chauth falls on January 8, 2026. Mothers often observe this fast for the well-being and long life of their sons, praying to Lord Ganesha.
The new moon day, or Amavasya, in January 2026 is on January 16. This day is considered significant for performing Shradh and Tarpan rituals for departed ancestors. The following day, January 17, marks the beginning of the auspicious Magha month in the Hindu lunar calendar.
Complete Day-by-Day List of Observances
Here is a detailed look at the key dates for January 2026 according to the Hindu Panchang:
- January 1, 2026 (Thursday): Dhanu Sankranti.
- January 8, 2026 (Thursday): Sakat Chauth (Ganesh Chauth).
- January 10, 2026 (Saturday): Vaikuntha Ekadashi.
- January 11, 2026 (Sunday): Pradosh Vrat (Krishna Paksha).
- January 13, 2026 (Tuesday): Lohri Festival.
- January 14, 2026 (Wednesday): Makar Sankranti, Pongal, Uttarayan, beginning of Magha month (Solar).
- January 16, 2026 (Friday): Amavasya, Mauni Amavasya.
- January 17, 2026 (Saturday): Beginning of Magha month (Lunar).
- January 26, 2026 (Monday): Republic Day, Pradosh Vrat (Shukla Paksha).
- January 30, 2026 (Friday): Vasant Panchami, Sri Panchami. This day is dedicated to Goddess Saraswati and marks the preparation for spring.
This comprehensive list allows devotees to plan their religious and spiritual activities in advance. The confluence of major harvest festivals like Pongal and Makar Sankranti with sacred fasts like Vaikuntha Ekadashi makes January 2026 a spiritually charged and culturally rich month. Observing these dates is an integral part of Hindu tradition, connecting individuals to cosmic cycles, cultural heritage, and community life.
