Karka Sankranti 2025: A Sacred Transition into Dakshinayana

Date & Sankranti Moment

Date: Wednesday, July 16, 2025
Sankranti Moment: 10:21 AM IST
Punya Kaal: 06:11 AM to 05:40 PM
Maha Punya Kaal: 03:34 PM to 05:40 PM

What is Karka Sankranti?

Karka Sankranti marks the Sun’s transition into Karka Rashi (Cancer), initiating the Dakshinayana phase—when the Sun begins its southward journey. This six-month period is considered the night of the devas (gods) and is spiritually reflective.

It is the counterpart to Makar Sankranti, which marks the Sun’s northward journey (Uttarayana).
It signals the start of the monsoon season and a time for introspection, penance, and ancestral remembrance.

Spiritual Significance

Dakshinayana Begins: A time for inner growth, spiritual sadhana, and vratas.
Devshayani Ekadashi often coincides with this day, marking the symbolic "sleep" of Lord Vishnu.
Ideal for Pitru Tarpanam: Many perform rituals to honor ancestors.
Charity (Daan) is highly meritorious—especially food, clothes, and money to Brahmins or the needy.

Rituals & Observances

1. Morning Bath & Surya Arghya

Take a holy dip in a river or sacred water body.
Offer Arghya (water) to the Sun while chanting:

Aditya Hridayam
Surya Ashtakam
Gayatri Mantra

2. Puja & Fasting

Worship Lord Vishnu or Lord Shiva.
Observe a satvik fast or consume simple meals.
Visit temples and take a sankalpa (spiritual vow) for the upcoming Chaturmas.

3. Charity & Pitru Tarpan

Donate jaggery, ghee, clothes, grains, or money.
Perform tarpanam to appease ancestors and seek blessings.

Regional Observances

Region	Observance Highlights
Tamil Nadu & Kerala	Surya archana, homams, and special alankaras in temples
Maharashtra & Karnataka	Fasting, daan, and seasonal rituals, especially among women and elders
Odisha & Eastern India	Simple Surya puja at home with seasonal offerings