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 |