As 2024 unfolds, it brings with it a rare celestial occurrence—a leap year. This year, instead of the usual 365 days, the calendar extends to 366 days, with February gaining an extra day. The uniqueness of leap years lies in the adjustment to keep the calendar year synchronized with the astronomical year. In 2024, the leap year will bestow an additional day, and with this temporal shift, the auspicious festival of Makar Sankranti will be celebrated on January 15.
In the realm of leap year alignment, the Capricorn zodiac will welcome the sun on January 15, precisely coinciding with Makar Sankranti. The transition of the zodiac after sunset will designate this day as the propitious time for the celebration. The Sun, during this Makar Sankranti, will be positioned in the Ashwini constellation, symbolized by the horse—a representation associated with the Leo sign. Additionally, the arrival of Makar Sankranti signifies the conclusion of Kharmas, a month-long inauspicious period.
Makar Sankranti is a day of reverence and festivity. On this occasion, people across regions worship the Sun God, participate in charitable activities, engage in kite flying, prepare traditional sweets, and farmers offer prayers for a prosperous harvest.
The auspicious time for the major Punya Kala of Makar Sankranti is from 07:15 AM to 09:00 AM. This 1-hour-and-45-minute window is considered highly significant for performing ritual baths and engaging in charitable activities associated with Makar Sankranti. Even within this auspicious period, adherence to the rituals is recommended to ensure a spiritually enriching celebration.
As the leap year unfolds, Makar Sankranti on January 15 promises a unique blend of celestial alignment and traditional festivities, inviting people to embrace the auspicious occasion with reverence and joy.
