Makar Sankranti 2026: Is it necessary to eat Khichdi or observe a fast? Learn what the scriptures say about the coincidence of January 14th.

News Topical, Digital Desk : January 14, 2026, marks the rare conjunction of Makar Sankranti and Ekadashi. This day is highly significant from a religious perspective, as the Sun enters Capricorn and the Ekadashi of the month of Paush also falls on this day. Therefore, devotees wonder whether to eat Khichdi or observe a fast.

The scriptures clearly state that the observance of Ekadashi on this day is paramount. This occasion is not only a festival, but also a time to learn the balance of righteousness, restraint, and virtuous deeds. Fasting, worshipping, and donating on this day bring immense merit.

The confluence of Ekadashi fast and Sankranti

Ekadashi is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The scriptures state that eating grains is prohibited on this day. Rice should especially not be consumed, touched, or donated. When Makar Sankranti and Ekadashi fall on the same day, the Ekadashi ritual is considered most important. Therefore, khichdi or other grains should not be consumed.

This restraint teaches devotees mental and spiritual discipline. In this way, those observing the fast can benefit from both the virtues of Sankranti and the rules of Ekadashi.

Donation of sesame seeds and jaggery: Special significance

Donating on this occasion is considered highly auspicious, but caution is necessary since it is Ekadashi. Donating rice or khichdi is prohibited on this day. Instead, one can donate sesame seeds, jaggery, fruits, milk, ghee, clothes, blankets, or khichdi made from sesame seeds. According to the scriptures, donating sesame seeds bestows special virtue and helps alleviate ancestral and planetary influences.

Devotees who wish to reap both the blessings of Makar Sankranti and the benefits of Ekadashi should take a holy bath in the morning, offer prayers to the Sun God, worship Lord Vishnu, and observe the fast with a fruit-based diet. The next day, on Dwadashi, the fast can be broken and food can be consumed.

Significance of Makar Sankranti

Makar Sankranti marks the Sun's northward movement. On this day, the Sun leaves Sagittarius and enters Capricorn. The scriptures consider it a day of the gods, and its significance is profound. Taking a holy bath, donating, and performing virtuous deeds hold special significance on Makar Sankranti. Traditionally, donating khichdi (rice porridge), sesame seeds, jaggery, and grains is considered auspicious.

This donation is believed to bring happiness, prosperity, and mental peace. Furthermore, offering prayers to the Sun God and making resolutions on this day enhances the effectiveness of actions. This time of Sankranti is also considered a symbol of new beginnings and positive change.

Read More: Kalashtami 2026: Chant these mantras of Hanuman ji on Kalashtami, happiness and peace will remain in your life.