Introduction
Simha Sankranti 2026
will be observed on Monday, August 17, 2026, marking the solar
transition from Karka Rashi (Cancer) to Simha Rashi (Leo). Known
as Simha Sankraman in South India, this day holds immense religious and
cultural importance, beginning the Chinga month in the Malayalam
calendar, Avni month in the Tamil calendar, and Bhadra month in
the Bengali calendar.
Rituals of the Day
- Sankraman Punya Snan
– Devotees take a holy bath in sacred rivers or water bodies.
- Worship
– Lord Vishnu, Sun God, and Lord Narasimha Swami are worshipped.
- Nariyal Abhisheka
– Fresh coconut water is used for abhisheka, symbolizing purity.
- Appada Puja
– Lord Ganesha is worshipped first to remove obstacles.
- Hoovina Puja
– A floral offering to Lord Vishnumurthy continues for a month until the
sun enters Kanya Rashi.
- Offerings of flowers, fruits, and
sweets are made, accompanied by chanting of mantras.
Significance
- Marks the solar transition
into Simha Rashi.
- Symbolizes purification and
devotion through holy baths and rituals.
- Associated with prosperity,
health, and divine blessings.
- In the Chand dynasty, common
people offered fruits and flowers to royals, known as the right of olag.
Regional Celebrations
- South India
– Observed with great devotion in temples across Kerala, Tamil Nadu,
Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka.
- Kulai, near Mangalore
– The main temple of Lord Vishnumurthy performs elaborate rituals under
priestly guidance.
- Kumaun region, Himachal Pradesh
– Both men and women celebrate Simha Sankranti with zeal.
Temple Celebrations
The Lord Vishnumurthy Temple in Kulai (near Mangalore) is a major center of Simha Sankranti rituals. Priests perform abhisheka, pujas, and offerings as per muhurat timings, drawing large gatherings of devotees.