Mesha Sankranti 2026 Date, Rituals, Significance, and Regional Celebrations

Mesha Sankranti marks the beginning of a New Year in the Hindu lunisolar calendar, celebrated as the Sun transitions into Mesha Rashi (Aries) from Meena Rashi (Pisces) during the auspicious month of Vaishakha. According to Vedic astrology, this event symbolizes new beginnings, prosperity, and spiritual growth. Falling on the 13th or 14th of April annually, this festival unites India under different names and customs.

Regional Celebrations:

Tamil Nadu: Celebrated as Puthandu, marking the New Year with traditional feasts and rituals.

Kerala: Known as Vishu, it symbolizes the harvest festival with elaborate Vishukkani displays.

Punjab: Observed as Vaisakhi, it celebrates the harvest and holds special significance for the Sikh community.

Assam: Celebrated as Bihu, it ushers in the Assamese New Year with songs, dances, and joy.

Odisha: Called Pana Sankranti, the festival features the preparation of Pana, a cooling festive drink.

West Bengal: Marked as Pohela Boishakh, it involves community gatherings and vibrant cultural programs.

Rituals and Celebrations

Worship: Devotees pray to Surya Dev (Sun God) and deities like Lord Shiva, Hanuman, Vishnu, and Maa Kali for blessings.

Sacred Baths: A holy dip in rivers such as Ganga, Yamuna, and Godavari is performed to purify the soul.

Daan Punya: Acts of charity and serving the needy are considered the highest forms of worship on this day.

Special Drink: In Odisha, Pana is a special drink prepared and shared among all.

Satvik Food: Freshly prepared vegetarian food is consumed, and indulgences are avoided.

Temple Visits: Devotees visit famous temples like Puri Jagannath, Samaleshwari, Cuttack Chandi, and Biraja to offer prayers.

Cultural Joy: The day is filled with wearing new clothes, singing, dancing, and celebrating with loved ones.

The Punya Kaal—the ten ghatis (approximately 4 hours) before and after the Sankranti Tithi—is particularly auspicious for performing sacred rituals and prayers.

A Celebration of Spirituality and Culture

Mesha Sankranti is a joyful festival full of spirituality, kindness, and celebrations. It shows how India’s different regions celebrate their shared traditions in unique ways. This festival is about starting fresh, giving thanks, and coming together as a community. Following the Punya Kaal, which is the most sacred time, helps devotees gain the most spiritual blessings from their actions.

2026 Date: April 14.