When Is Uttarayan 2026? Date, Time, Rituals, and Significance Explained

Balasahana Suresh
Uttarayan, also known as Makar Sankranti in many parts of India, is one of the most widely celebrated festivals, marking the sun’s transition into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makara). It is a festival that celebrates the arrival of longer days and the end of the winter solstice.

Here’s everything you need to know about Uttarayan 2026.

Uttarayan 2026 Date

In 2026, Uttarayan will be celebrated on Thursday, january 15, 2026. The festival usually falls on January 14th or 15th every year, depending on the solar calendar.

Uttarayan 2026 Time

The festival is celebrated throughout the day, but specific auspicious times (muhurats) are often observed for rituals:

  • Punya Kaal (Auspicious Period): Early morning before sunrise
  • Main Celebrations: Morning to afternoon, ideal for kite flying and charitable activities
Exact timings can vary based on your city and local panchang (Hindu calendar).

Rituals of Uttarayan

Uttarayan is celebrated differently across India, but some common rituals include:

Kite Flying (Patang Utsav)

In Gujarat, Uttarayan is famously celebrated with a kite festival, where people of all ages fly colorful kites.

Rooftops and open fields turn into a sea of kites, accompanied by music and festive cheer.

Holy Dips

Many people take a dip in holy rivers like Ganga, Yamuna, or Sabarmati, believing it purifies the soul and removes sins.

Charity and Food Sharing

Donating food, clothes, or money to the needy is considered auspicious.

Traditional foods like til (sesame seeds) and jaggery (gur) sweets are prepared and shared.

Puja and Offerings

People perform prayers to the sun god (Surya) for health, wealth, and prosperity.

Rituals often include offerings of sesame seeds, rice, and coconut.

Significance of Uttarayan

  • Astronomical Significance: Uttarayan marks the sun’s northward journey (Dakshinayan to Uttarayan), signifying longer days and the onset of harvest season.
  • Spiritual Significance: It is believed that charity and holy rituals performed during Uttarayan bring spiritual merit and blessings from the sun God.
  • Cultural Significance: Especially in Gujarat, Uttarayan is synonymous with joy, community celebrations, and kite flying competitions.
  • Agricultural Significance: Farmers celebrate the harvest season, giving thanks for a bountiful crop.
Traditional Foods for Uttarayan

Some special dishes prepared on this day include:

  • Tilgul (sesame and jaggery sweets)
  • Undhiyu (mixed vegetable delicacy, especially in Gujarat)
  • Chikki (sesame brittle)
  • Puri with sweets
Sharing these sweets is a gesture of friendship and goodwill, often accompanied by the Marathi saying, “Tilgul ghya, god god bola”, meaning accept the sweet and speak sweetly.

Tips to Celebrate Uttarayan Safely

Kite Flying Safety: Avoid crowded rooftops, use safe strings, and supervise children.

River Dips: Only bathe in safe, supervised locations.

Sun Exposure: Protect yourself from prolonged sun exposure while flying kites.

Charity: Consider donating essentials like clothes and food to local charities.

In summary, Uttarayan 2026 will be celebrated on January 15, 2026, with kite flying, religious rituals, charity, and traditional foods forming the heart of the festival. It is a day that blends spirituality, culture, and joy, welcoming longer days and prosperity for the year ahead.

 

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.

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