The festival of Makar Sankranti in 2026 will carry a profound astrological significance, marking more than just the Sun's transition into Capricorn. This year, the event coincides with Saturn concluding its journey through Purva Bhadrapada and preparing to enter Uttara Bhadrapada. This dual shift transforms the festival's energy from one of mere celebration to a pivotal moment for establishing responsibility and steady, long-term growth.
The 2026 Astrological Backdrop: A Call for Discipline
Astrologically, Makar Sankranti is the day the Sun moves into Capricorn, a zodiac sign ruled by Saturn. In 2026, this is not merely a seasonal change. It represents a critical shift in energy—from movement to direction, and from excitement to responsibility. The involvement of Saturn, the planet of karma and discipline, makes this Sankranti less about festivity and more about laying a solid foundation for the future. The planetary alignment emphasizes patience, consistency, and grounded action.
A Step-by-Step Guide to the Makar Sankranti Pooja Vidhi
The rituals for Makar Sankranti 2026 are designed to align with Saturn's steadying influence. Following this vidhi can help individuals harness the energy for clarity and disciplined growth.
Begin at Brahma Muhurat
The practice starts before sunrise during the Brahma Muhurat. Waking up at this tranquil time helps the mind and body attune to the Sun's shift calmly. This period is astrologically favorable for cultivating the clarity and restraint synonymous with Saturn's influence this year. The simple act of rising early instills an inner discipline that resonates throughout the day.
The Grounding Ritual Bath
Bathing during Brahma Muhurat is recommended to relax the body and shed mental clutter. Given Saturn's preference for grounding energy, using warm water is particularly beneficial. Adding a few sesame seeds or a drop of sesame oil to the bathwater creates a subtle connection with Saturn's enduring essence. This ritual serves both for purity and to awaken a focused state of mind for the day ahead.
Setting a Simple and Sincere Sankalp
After bathing, take a few moments of stillness. The Sankranti sankalp this year should be practical and honest. Saturn responds to commitment, not to grand, intense promises. Formulate a simple, internal resolve to act with patience, consistency, and responsibility. Voicing it aloud is optional; the sincerity of the intention holds the true power.
Offering Arghya to the Rising Sun
As the sun rises, the act of offering water (Arghya) becomes paramount. Using a simple copper vessel, stand facing the Sun without distractions. The Sun in Capricorn symbolizes authority rooted in discipline. Allow the sunlight to gently touch your eyes during the offering. This practice is believed to enhance clarity, self-assurance, and the capacity for sound decision-making in the coming months. Chanting the Surya Gayatri Mantra can accompany this offering.
Lighting the Sesame Oil Lamp
Lighting a lamp with sesame oil holds special meaning in 2026. Sesame is deeply connected to Saturn, representing resilience and sustained effort. After lighting the lamp, sit quietly beside it for a few minutes. This moment of silence is crucial—it symbolizes a willingness to persevere patiently, even when results are not immediate. In this context, quiet contemplation holds more value than rapid chanting.
Naivedya and the Spirit of Daan
The food offering (Naivedya) should be simple and nourishing. Items like sesame seeds, jaggery, rice, or plain khichdi are ideal. The emphasis is on sincerity, not variety. After the offering, sharing this food with family, neighbors, or those in need completes the ritual cycle and perpetuates its positive energy.
Daan, or charitable giving, is the culmination of the worship on this Sankranti. Saturn favors practical donations such as warm clothing, blankets, footwear, food grains, or sesame-based items. The most potent karmic impact comes from giving anonymously and thoughtfully. A small, sincere act of charity carries more weight than a large, showy one.
Integrating the Energy Post-Pooja
Once the rituals conclude, sit in silence for a few more minutes. Avoid rushing into the noise of daily routines, screens, or immediate tasks. This quiet integration allows the grounded, disciplined energy of Saturn to settle within, setting the tone for the path of steady growth ahead.
About the Author: Sidhharrth S Kumaar is the Founder and Chief Happiness Officer of NumroVani. A registered pharmacist turned Astro-Numerologist and Life Coach, he has over a decade of practice in occult sciences. A TEDx and Josh Talks speaker, he has authored two books and numerous research papers.
